My philosophy of education and teaching embodies many key components that are fundamental for successful classroom and community of learners.

 

• The use of Common Core State Standards (CCSS), Grade Level Content Expectations (GLCE), benchmarks, and assessments guide unit planning and instruction.

• Learning should be hands on, minds on.

• Teaching should be higher order.

• Students will learn in an inquiry-based environment.

• Multiple modalities such as visual, kinesthetic, and verbal models are used, and varied throughout lessonsLearning goals should be explicit.

• With teacher support, students are active participants in their education. Students set personal goals that promote critical thinking, metacognitive awareness, and student growth.

• Teachers hold students accountable for their own learning.

• Research-based classroom management strategies are necessary for students to succeed in the classroom.

• Multiple learning styles are accommodated for.

• Multiple configurations of class groupings will vary such as whole class, small group, partner, individual involvement.

• Teaching is discussion based.

• Differentiation, simplifications, and extensions are applied to every lesson taught.

• Multiple problem strategies should be taught.

• Science, mathematics, and social studies should be taught through discovery.

• Assessments should be formal, informal, and on going.

• Students excel in a collaborative learning environment.

• All instruction should be scaffolded.

• A teacher’s job is to instill perseverance.

• Creating a safe, welcoming, and respectful space fosters a community of learners and culture of thinking whereby students can be courageous and proactive in their learning.

• Classrooms are inclusive of all learners; diversity is celebrated.

• Teachers form meaningful, individual relationships with students through mutual respect.

• Learning is fostered through real work application.

• All lessons should reflect the students’ funds of knowledge and having a meaningful connection to their lives in and out of school.

• Communication with families is important to student learning. Establishing a home-to-school connection solidifies effective roles in students’ education. In addition, parents’ and guardians’ concerns are respected, studied, and reviewed.

• Teachers are active members of the community