All students are capable of learning and should do so in the most authentic manner possible. Each and every student is unique and has both strengths and challenges to their learning. It is my mission to help students to overcome barriers such as dyslexia, social or emotional issues, or ESOL in the most effective and supportive way so that students can take ownership of their own learning. In my classroom, learning and approaches to learning are dynamic, engaging, and individualized. Students are encouraged to become thinkers and risk takers. I have taught Grades 1 – 4 in both South Korea and Myanmar and although the basic structure of my classroom may appear different, the philosophy has remained the same. Each learning approach and experience is designed and crafted to provide a unique educational opportunity for the individual student. Every Student’s own learning style, strengths and weaknesses are taken into consideration.
As important as it is to reach each student, it is equally important to foster and maintain the organic nature of learning. From the moment we are born we become lifelong learners. We begin to inquire, wonder, and explore the world around us. Through this process we learn and improve ourselves. Learning in a school should be no different. We do a disservice to our students by treating each subject as an independent entity without connection to other subjects or prior knowledge and experience. Therefore, key concepts are examined and explored through interdisciplinary lessons and collaborative activities so that students recognize and appreciate the importance of the key and related concepts.
Though I have a deep appreciation for various pedagogy, I became an educator to serve. In my years of teaching I have had rich experiences in diverse situations, and have learned some things myself and have found my place. My place is here with the students. My place is here with the students that don’t fit in, that didn’t get a head start, that require language or learning support, students living in poverty, and those that have emotional, social, or behavioral challenges. I am not trying to make them fit the mold; rather I endeavor to push students to be the best they can be. Everyone is welcome in my classroom and they are the reason I continue to do the job I love.
