Philosophy

of Education

I believe that educators should do their utmost to foster in their students a

lifelong passion and curiosity for learning. In order to be successful in this endeavor,
an educator must strive to create a classroom community where all learners feel
welcome, challenged, and accepted; connect learning to students prior knowledge
and interests; and forge ties between students in the school setting, their home life,
and in their communities.

Creating a classroom community is one of the aspects of education to which I
look forward the most. This facet of classroom management can be the difference
between success and disengagement for children; if the environment is not
conducive to learning, or does not feel safe and welcoming, children are less likely to
learn and achieve to their fullest potential. In order to achieve this, I intend to
implement and maintain consistent rules, routines, and procedures. I hope to
quickly establish a rapport with my students. These practices will help students feel
comfortable and confident in my classroom. Differentiation will be at the core of
everything I do; this will provide all students with opportunities to achieve, struggle,
and be successful.

One aspect of teaching that is important in classrooms, but is especially
crucial for teaching English language learners is building background knowledge
and creating ties between content matter and students interests. In general
education classrooms, ELLs do not always have the language supports necessary to
connect with the content. It is my intent to provide this critical link, whether as a
general education teacher, or as an ESL instructor. Without these connections,
students have a much harder time engaging with the material presented, which may
ultimately lead to disengagement with the learning process as a whole. I hope to be
able to forge those connections and build the requisite background knowledge to
help my students be successful in their school careers.

As an aspiring ESL teacher, I understand that the strength of family
involvement and relationships can help determine the success of a child. I hope to
create strong ties between my classroom and students families through frequent
positive communication and a genuine interest in and appreciation for different
cultures and communities. Communicating with families in a positive manner from
the start of our relationship will foster a more trusting and open relationship. By
creating this positive history with families, if any issues with behavior or academics
arise, we will be able to approach the problem as a team.

In my future classroom, these three aspects of education will be clearly
evident, as will my respect for and devotion to my students. I believe that every
child can succeed with the right guidance. Teaching is not a career; it is a calling, a
privilege, and an honor one that I will cherish each and every day in the classroom.
My students will leave my room at the end of my time with them, leaving me behind,
having learned as much from them as they have from me.