I.G.N.I.T.

E
“The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be ignited.” ~ Plutarch

Inspiring and encouraging the hearts of my students is one of my passions for life. To
light a fire for learning is a hard task, but is one that should be done each and every day. It is my
job to teach in a way that shows a student that my time is given generously for any need a
student may have. How I spend my time is how I show my love. Spending as much time as
possible with my students to further their lives is an expression of love that I wish to show. I
inspire and encourage in little ways of positivity that transform into life changing ways.

Grading with fairness is essential. Fairness is not equal, but instead is giving each
student what they need to grow as a learner. I believe in an adaption of Dufour’s grading system
and a need for second chances. Learning is not a one chance moment in time, but is instead an
ever changing system. Zero’s become incompletes and new opportunities.

Nurturing is an important aspect in my classroom. My students will always know that

they are important and the reason that I teach. Students are taken care of, and always heard.
Concerns of all sizes should be valued and addressed. My classroom is a home to learn in and
acts as a second family to the students.

Instructing the hidden curriculum of life learning, along with the formal curriculum is
also a very important item in my philosophy. Teaching through example is one of the most
valuable lessons a teacher can give, but it does not come in a book. This is carried out through
my actions of love and care among my students. I want to show them the importance of a global
perspective and that learning is everywhere throughout life’s days.

Teach with best practices that I have studied and researched to ensure that my students
are given the best in every day and in everyway. This encompasses my classroom management
beliefs, assessment, grading, data, instructional strategies, and also communication among the
stakeholders. Including these elements allows my students to have the best learning environment
possible for them.

Engaging students in activities so that each day is an opportunity to learn. This involves
allowing myself to be silly and ridiculous so that they too, may act in such a way when learning
new ideas. This is a belief to be incorporated in every lesson and day.

Children are the future and by igniting their minds, teachers can ignite the world.