K-8th Grade P.E. and Outdoor Education
What is your teaching philosophy? My philosophy of education is grounded in the belief that in order to be a teacher, one must embrace a genuine respect for the student. The greatest teachers I have had in my life have made me feel respected; this simple act opened doors by just knowing someone believed in me. I think that youth, in particular, have a keen sense for who is respecting them and who is just playing the part. If a teacher is able to effect a genuine, respectful relationship with a student then he or she is creating the fertile ground necessary for great learning to occur.
I believe that education, simply stated, is the art of problem solving. Life is a series of obstacles to navigate and issues to solve. The core principles essential to my teaching are: 1) to establish mutual respect with each individual student 2) to foster competence and confidence in learning through experiential challenges and 3) to develop a student's sense of responsibility to themselves and their community.
Is there anyone in particular who has inspired you as a teacher? My father has influenced me tremendously.
What was your most rewarding experience as a teacher? Witnessing student breakthroughs.
What do you love most about teaching? Imagining myself in their shoes.
What do you like to do when you are not teaching? Venture a-bout.