My life experiences have shaped who I am and what I desire to be. My past experiences in school have given me a love of wisdom and learning. I have seen effective models of teaching and desire to provide a similar environment that embraces learning for my students. Based on my experiences in the classroom, I believe the following statements to be true and imperative to a successful school year.

I believe the classroom climate should foster respect, responsibility, and a love for learning. My role as an elementary teacher is to foster an environment that allows children to feel safe and challenged to be their best. I believe part of my role is to highlight each child's individual strengths so that they feel welcomed to contribute. My job is to set rules and expectations of the children that regulate a stable schedule and environment for them. As a teacher, I will reinforce positive behavior and guide them in their incorrect decisions so that they can reevaluate and join the class.

I also believe that a teacher should make all content engaging, accessible, and relevant to each student. I want my students to personalize and own their education so that their uniqueness will add wealth to the knowledge they receive. Curriculum should be presented in a creative manner using technology and other resources so that children are able to engage in the information and learn using multiple learning styles. Instruction should be based on assessment results and differentiated to meet each student at his/her own learning levels. Experiences in teaching and watching mentor teachers have proven that students learn best when the content was made accessible and relevant to their daily lives.

Another characteristic of a successful classroom that I plan to foster is high expectations for student work and involvement in class. Despite adversity and conflicts at home or in their community, I expect my students to excel and work hard. I believe that students will reach as high as they are expected and with support, all students can succeed and learn.

It is my goal to create a classroom that will be characterized by these beliefs. With continual reflection and growth as a professional, I will reach this goal and facilitate an active, engaging, and successful learning environment.