My teaching philosophy constantly evolves.

Early in my teaching
career, my philosophy was concise. All children can learn. I still
believe that; however, after many years of teaching experience in
varied settings, it goes much deeper. The fundamental goal of
teaching is to provide an atmosphere that fosters a love of learning.
My role as teacher is to cultivate an atmosphere conducive to learning
by incorporating effective teaching strategies, implementing excellent
classroom management, and tailoring instruction to meet the needs
and learning styles of my varied students. I teach students how to find
answers by providing access to information so that they can be life
long learners. In essence, I teach my students how to think. My goal
in the classroom is to be a facilitator of learning by guiding students to
find answers for themselves. I strive to encourage my students to
think deeply, develop critical thinking skills, and apply those across
content areas. I use a variety of questioning techniques to encourage
higher order thinking. Students learn best when they are actively
engaged in the learning process. I present information and gradually
release my students to find the answers first as a whole group, then in
group settings, in partner work, and ultimately, on their own. This
Gradual Release Model keeps them actively participating, rather than
being spoon-fed information and merely reiterating concepts back to
me. Students need a great amount of exposure practicing concrete
concepts before understanding abstract principles. I use manipulatives
and hands on learning in order for my students to understand
representational concepts. I have many learning styles and different
levels of learning in my classroom. Being trained as a Special
Education teacher, I have a keen eye for when a student needs to slow
down, speed up, or needs re-teaching. I differentiate my lessons as my
students needs deem appropriate. I continually gage my students
progress through formative assessments and adjust my instruction
accordingly.
My students know I care deeply about them and am personally
invested in their education and their lives. I form deep, lasting
relationships with their parents/caregivers. The most fruitful teaching
environment is formed when a collaborative effort exists between
student, teacher, caregiver, and school. Some of my closest
friendships to this day are parents of former students.
In summation, Im passionate about teaching. Im a born teacher. I
knew I wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl and taught my
Cabbage Patch Dolls using my chalkboard in my childhood bedroom.
My teaching philosophy changes each school year, monthly, weekly,
and daily based on what Im seeing in my students. The best teachers
are moldable and can tailor instruction based on Best Practices and
current research. I strive to do just that in my classroom.