Growing the young minds of this generation is no small feat.

Few individuals have a

mature understanding of the roles and responsibilities of an educator. Eight-hour workdays are
hardly feasible. Amounts of time spent after hours planning, grading, and re-teaching is
expected. Building relationships with students, their parents, and co-workers is constant.
Spending personal money on school and project supplies is nearly inevitable. However, the hard
work pays off. Helen Caldicott says, "Teachers, I believe, are the most responsible and important
members of society because their professional efforts affect the fate of the earth (Quotes About
Teaching). The greatest reward a teacher could receive is to see that he or she has made a
positive influence in a childs life.
As a teacher, I am committed to life-long learning. I, myself, will pursue professional
development opportunities and stay current with educational theories and teaching strategies.
Having a thirst for life-long learning is something I aspire for each of my students to possess. I
understand that teaching is a career that is ever changing. Being open to change and innovation is
vital. I believe an educator should strive to improve at least 10 percent of his or her curriculum
each school year. Another responsibility of teachers is to remain involved in his or her
community. There are several opportunities to use the community as a resource to enhance
curriculum. A few examples of utilizing community resources include: guest speakers, field trips,
volunteer opportunities parental involvement by inviting them to participate with students, and
making self-to-world connections when applicable. Exposing children to the real world and
teaching them to be involved in the community involved life-long learning and participation.
I am eager and willing to immerse myself in new cultures. Each student will feel valued
and included in my classroom. Students will mirror the attitudes and beliefs they see on a daily
routine. I am committed to teaching students about being accepting of every individual, no
matter how different they may seem. I believe, Allowing children to explore varying cultures
creates opportunities for them to see that even when people have different customs and
traditions, they often share some common traits, too (Creating a Multicultural Classroom
Environment, 2008).
Based on the experience Ive gained in the classroom, I believe the constructivist theory
of education is highly effective. Stated simply, people construct their own understanding and
knowledge of the world, through experiencing things and reflecting on those experiences
(Constructivism as a Paradigm for Teaching and Learning). Allowing students to collaborate and
share thoughts teaches them social skills, and grows their critical thinking skills. Teaching
students to analyze and reflect on their work and findings is beneficial. Asking why always prods
this type of analytical thinking. Allowing time to talk-it-out and share with peers also encourages
deep critical thinking. I believe children should know why they answer a certain way, rather than
memorizing that its correct and not understanding why. Creativity is another vital element of
constructivism. Allowing students creativity to flow is best, especially in regards to artwork and
everyday decision making. Constructivism has opened my eyes to just how capable students are,
at any age. I will encourage collaboration and critical thinking in my classroom.
Educators are held to a high standard. I understand the importance of integrity,
responsibility, and discipline. I will ensure that relationships amongst students and parents
remain professional and confidential. Fulfilling my roles and responsibilities is something Ill
strive toward everyday. I also believe educators should remain professional outside of the work

place. As I reflect on my future career and all that I believe, I am excited to begin my journey as
an educator next fall!