Educational Philosophy

             An education should enable students to interact with and experience a world that calls for their active engagement in society. Education is vital in a student’s ability to respond to others and think for themselves. In the English classroom, I believe that students should often engage in reading and writing to promote their own thinking in ways that propels them into questioning and analyzing text, spoken word, images, and more. Learning is a life-long process that students will engage in daily, even without them realizing it. The English classroom should prepare students for the literacy activities they will be doing in the “real world.” These activities can derive from “typical” ELA tools such as reading books but can also originate in hands-on experiences that come alongside students to bolster their current knowledge and propel them into the future.

            My classroom prizes critical thinking, innovation, and a willingness to advance ourselves and each other. Not only are students pushing the limits of their knowledge, but I am right alongside them as well, seeking more information and insight each day. The learning process is not linear. It requires questioning, collaboration, and risk-taking. I am a facilitator in this process who at times inquires, celebrates, and models, but always encourages, guides, and learns.