Philosophy of Education

        In order to guarantee that all students are provided a positive, safe and successful learning environment, I believe it is important to define what my philosophy of education is and then live by that definition. Reflecting on that, I believe that the purpose of education is to teach all students to become successful in their lives and for effective teachers to make that possible.

        I believe that all students can learn and be successful. It is important for teachers to see each student as an individual and realize that everyone learns differently. Students should have the opportunity to learn in ways that best suits them and teachers need to offer and utilize a variety of instructional strategies to ensure that. 

        Just as important as the instructional strategy, teachers need to ensure that their curriculum is relevant and individualized. Students need to be able to play a role in the curriculum by guiding and shaping their own learning. Being able to work together to construct knowledge we can help students learn real life skills from each other. In addition, showing them how their academics will play a role in their success in life will bring relevance to the curriculum.
 

        Teachers also need to be creative when evaluating learning. Giving a paper/pencil test is not the only way to show progress or that learning has occurred. Students should be able to demonstrate what they have learned in ways that fit and meet their learning styles. Assessments are a critical piece in knowing what we have achieved but allowing many different types of assessments is critical to student success.
 

        I also believe in creating a diverse environment that will be welcoming, and open to all students regardless of race, gender, ethnic background, religious background, ability, sexual orientation. I deem it necessary to foster clear communication skills, respect others viewpoints, recognize different learning styles, and to have equitable participation in the classroom. I want all students to feel comfortable in their learning environment and know that their opinion and differences are valued and embraced. Our world is a diverse place and our students can learn from one another because they each have their own story. By creating an environment in which they are free to share their stories, values and opinions will foster diversity and create a sense of community with the students.
 

        I feel that another critical piece of educating our children comes from having parents and the community involved in our schools. Children are our future citizens and having the community invest in them will allow students to make connections of their academics to the real world. It will help making learning meaningful.
 

        I believe that the important pieces of my philosophy of education can be defined by knowing that all students can learn; teachers need to utilize a variety of instructional methods to ensure that learning occurs and evaluate learning in appropriate ways, having a relevant curriculum, embracing diversity, and getting the community involved in our schools. With these key elements, all students can learn and be successful in their lives.