JESSICA KATZENBERGER

My philosophy of education is that each and every student has the capability to learn and
it is my job as an educator to help students grow emotionally, socially, and intellectually. It is my
goal as a teacher to build an atmosphere where children are not afraid to be themselves and are
given the opportunities to succeed in and outside of my classroom.
I will deliver curriculum in a way that incorporates all students’ learning styles in order to
meet the unique abilities of the students in my classroom. Through a variety of hands-on
learning, collaborative learning projects, and individual work, students will be engaged and
invested in their learning experience. Curriculum will address all standards effectively, but will
also help students to develop soft skills and life skills that will guide them to form relationships,
problem solve, and understand their talents. These soft skills will give students the confidence to
succeed as they continue through life. I must not only teach my students the curriculum, but also
teach the importance of being a good person.
Through a variety instructional methods students will be engaged in their own learning. I
will use different technology, games, competitions, movement, and challenges in my classroom
to enhance student involvement. This will not only help students to attain essential knowledge,
but to work as a team, become leaders, problem-solvers, and thinkers. I will guide my students,
but also allow them to take control of their learning. Students will be involved in my classroom
and feel like active contributors. When planning instruction and assessment my students learning
styles and needs will be the most influential component. This enthusiastic classroom
environment will help my students grasp difficult concepts and skills that will be beneficial in
aspects of life.
In my classroom I will foster a sense of community. Students will know that they are
valued and respected. Students will feel comfortable with themselves and will be able to embrace
the differences of their classmates and peers. My students will be challenged to never give up,
learn from their mistakes, and to embrace their classroom community. I will be proactive to
address any behaviors in the classroom through a positive approach, challenging myself to
understand why behaviors are occurring. I will work alongside students to ensure that they feel
safe and comfortable with the rules and expectations that are made. Students will be fully aware
of the expectations and through positive reinforcement, those expectations will be reinforced. We
will celebrate the successes, work through the hardships, and grow together.
I will serve as an advocate for my students. Students will come to my classroom from all
walks of life and these things will not be ignored when they come through the door. I hope to
build a positive rapport with students and families so that they can both truly see that I care.
Through consistent communication I hope my students and my students’ families understand
how much I value their input, time, and voice.
My vision is that I will teach to all students needs no matter their abilities. If a child
cannot learn because of the way I teach, then I must adjust my teaching style to their learning
style. Students talents, strengths, and interests will be celebrated and used to enhance instruction.
Through dedication, encouragement, and guidance I will push each student to be a better version
of themselves and never give up on them. Once a child leaves my classroom they will feel
empowered, they will know their talents, and they will be happy with the person they are
becoming. I will teach future leaders, innovators, and thinkers that with hard work, anything is
possible.