My Developing and Ever-Evolving Teaching Philosophies

1) Reserve judgement and remain objective.

It is one of my strongest beliefs that teachers should never push their own
agendas onto students. Rather, we should be welcoming and accepting of student
voices. I try to keep my political and religious beliefs hidden from my students
because even if I am not overtly trying to do so, students simply being aware of
my opinions could limit, rather than foster, their willingness to share and
participate in controversial discussions.

2) Be mindful and compassionate.

In the short amount of time that I have been a student teacher, I have come to
learn that this job requires a certain degree of compassion and understanding.
Over the past few months, some of my students have faced serious hardships. I'm
proud to say that many are willing to communicate their struggles with me so
that I can give them some guidance and strength. I have no problem making
adjustments and working with students to help them complete their school work.
Additionally, a few times a week, we practice "breathing" or meditating in the
classroom. My mentor started this practice and I would like to continue it in my
own classroom. Students have shared how helpful these few minutes can be to
ease anxiety and move more mindfully throughout the day.

3) Teaching is just as much about learning as it is teaching.

Honestly, I think teaching is more about learning than it is teaching. I'm
constantly asking for feedback from my students. On numerous occasions,
students have expressed their gratitude to me on how they feel as if they are
actually being heard. It can be hard sometimes to receive constructive criticism,
but I'm learning to do so with an open, flexible disposition.