This section contains work from ESPY 5510. Being forced to compile my philosophy of education after seven years in the classroom was a worthwhile and necessary task. 

The attached document shows my attempt to piece together a working philosophy statement after seven years in the classroom. I found this particular assignment one of the most challenging, as all of the theories hold a kernel of truth. Attempting to put my system of beliefs into words inevitably forced me into a few uncomfortable places where the fog of cognitive dissonance was thick. Ultimately, this process has given me a clearer vision of what I truly believe - even if those beliefs are constantly in flux. Whereas prior to putting these thoughts on paper, I was moving along happily thinking that I knew who I was and what I believed as an educator, I was ultimately stuck on an educational hamster wheel. I was working but not really moving forward as an educator. Now, I have a foundation to build upon and am more self-aware of what I believe works. The work begins when putting these beliefs into practice.