Bergstein

Portfolio Introductory Narrative

My name is Sherri Bergstein, and Ive had the dream of becoming a teacher ever since I
was a child. After graduating from UMBC with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, I decided to
take a year off and make the final decision as to what field I wanted to pursue a Masters Degree.
It was during that year in which I decided teaching, specifically special education, was the
definite field for me. I always had a soft spot in my heart for children with special needs, and at
last, I knew I wanted to make a difference in the lives of students in the educational setting. Once
being accepted to the MAT program, I began working for a not-for-profit in which I helped
adults with mental illness live independently within the community. My passion has always been
helping to make a difference in the lives of others, whether big or small, in any way possible.
Completing coursework in the MAT program has been nothing but a positive experience, and it
has led me to being on the right track in pursuing my dreams and goals of being a special
educator.

Rationale for Building the Portfolio

I am building this portfolio as a professional illustration of the assignments I have
completed as a part of the MAT program. This portfolio contains a plethora of artifacts that
demonstrate my skills, knowledge, and abilities that are fundamental to the field of special
education. This portfolio is not only important in completing the MAT program, but furthermore,
it will assist me in the interview process. I will be able to display this portfolio for prospective
employers to be able to see my prior experience, skills, knowledge, and abilities. In addition, this
portfolio will assist me as a future special educator, as it will provide specific educational
strategies, differentiated instruction, and can be used as a point of reference. Completing this

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portfolio has allowed me to reflect upon my own learning, which is extremely important in the
process of becoming a professionally developed teacher.

Reflections on Coursework, Learning Experiences, & CEC Professional Standards

The coursework completed in the MAT program has significantly aided in my
professional growth and competencies in the field of special education. At the beginning of this
program, I had no prior teaching experience. After completing three years of the MAT program,
I was able to receive high quality instruction and gain a multitude of knowledge regarding
children with disabilities, working with families, classroom management, the IEP process,
implementing strategies, how to effectively teach students with disabilities, and also how to
make learning accessible to all students.
My coursework and field placements have allowed me to gain a comprehensive
understanding of the CEC standards. I will use these standards and integrate them with my skills
and knowledge into my future practice. My experiences have led to a more thorough
understanding of learner differences and learning environments. Furthermore, I have an
enhanced understanding of curricular content knowledge, assessment, instructional planning and
strategies, as well as professionalism and collaboration. It is my ultimate goal to meet the needs
of future students and make learning accessible to all.

Philosophy of Teaching
My philosophy of teaching has matured and developed throughout the coursework and
teaching placements within the program. I believe that all students have the potential to learn and
the ability to flourish within the classroom. All teachers have the keys to unlocking each

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students potential, but its finding the correct key to each students learning style thats
important in allowing us to implement effective teaching strategies. It is important to know all
learners, their interests, families, individual learning styles, cultural differences, goals, and
ambitions. I believe in supporting all students to reach their highest potential. It is important to
realize that what works best for one student may not work best for another. Teaching is a field
that requires flexibility and instruction that is universally designed to meet the needs of all
students. With principles of UDL, a positive work environment, and students ready to achieve, I
believe I will be able to implement effective instruction and aid in helping students accomplish
their goals and dreams.