Goals+and+Philosophy

Although many people may say that their learning stopped after high school, or even after college, I am a firm believer in the fact that learning is a life-long process. The education I received in high school was meant to prepare me to learn more in college; my college education helps me to learn more every day that I am in the classroom. On the first day of each semester I remind myself of my goals for my career before informing my students of the goals I have for them.
 * Professional Aspirations and Educational Philosophy**

I became a teacher because I enjoy working with people. In order to be an effective teacher, I cannot simply enjoy being with adolescents, but also must appreciate the company of my colleagues. Helping other colleagues plan lessons, maintain effective classroom management, and create new ways to reach students is an important part of being a teacher. I respect and seek out teachers that have that skill and experience. It is my goal to be the best teacher I can be not only in the classroom for the students, but also in the break room for my fellow teachers. Teaching is an art that cannot be mastered, but I enjoy doing the best that I can for my students. My career goal is to become a teacher that others can look towards for help and guidance to be effective in the classroom.

While being a model collaborator is important, it is only part of the equation of a successful educator. My goals in the classroom take two forms: those for me and those for my students. Each morning I make a commitment to maintain a positive disposition for the day. Issues arise that cause stress, but I cannot allow that strain to affect how my students feel in my classroom. A positive environment is critical for success in a math class and by being optimistic, the students can only benefit.

In order to prepare the students for success, I have three goals for them. I want each student to leave my class a better problem solver, critical thinker, and hard worker. These three attributes ensure students do well not just in mathematics, but in other endeavors in and out of school.

When people find out I am a teacher, they are quick to ask me what I teach. Often expecting to hear a subject, they are surprised when I respond that I teach people. Math is a vehicle to teach students to be life-long learners. I became a teacher so I could make a difference in students’ lives, even if it is only one student. As long as I have touched that one person, though, I will consider my career successful.

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