There is a prevalent idea in our society today that troubles me greatly; it is the idea that our nation's public schools are failing. The popular conception seems to be that the government is dumping money into education only to see test scores declining and children dropping out of school. However, it is my firm belief that America's schools have never been better. Teachers are more qualified, students are offered more choices, and parents are more well-informed now than ever before. But I also believe that schools have a lot of room to improve. It is my fervent desire to make my classroom a festive, friendly, comfortable haven where children may take refuge.

My philosophy of education relies on three main issues that I believe are vital to the health of a classroom. I believe that parental involvement, teacher enthusiasm and student motivation are the most crucial elements of a child's education.

I think that recently our society has begun to downplay the importance of parents in the lives of their children. I feel that many of life's most important lessons cannot be taught in school. Children watch their parents every day and learn from their actions. I believe that a healthy classroom is one that allows parents open access at any time to observe, volunteer and visit. I support ideas such as home visits twice a year for each child, conferences that take place in community centers or other locations where parents can more easily attend, and occasional parent/teacher/student outings on weekends. I believe that a child's success is often determined by parental involvement and expectations; I hope to provide as much opportunity for interaction as possible.

I also believe that teacher enthusiasm directly relates to student enthusiasm in the classroom. I think that by nature teachers need to be humorous, outgoing, cheerful and honest. As a teacher, I am aware that students observe every move that I make, and that causes me to conduct myself in a way that allows me to be a good example. I want my classroom to be a fun, cheerful place where there is no drudgery or dread. I realize that this is a tall request in many of today's classrooms, and I know that it is also an unlikely scenario. However, I believe that attitude is everything, and I plan to make enthusiasm a habit in my classroom.

I believe that enthusiasm is also vital to student motivation. I think that motivation is not innate, but learned by example. It is my sincere wish that every student that passes through my classroom can become an independent, responsible, self-motivated individual.

My Goals

To teach and to be taught
To motivate students
To involve parents
To have contagious enthusiasm and humor
To empower students and parents
To encourage students and teach them how to encourage one another
To instill empathy and compassion
To help children discover their gifts
To help children set goals and achieve them
To learn, discover and have fun



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