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Tara Cloutier
Educational Philosophy Statement
“And will you succeed?
Yes! You will indeed!
(98 ¾ percent guaranteed.)”
Oh, the places you’ll go! By Dr. Seuss
Dr. Seuss had it right in his whimsical but ever so meaningful words. Education, like life itself is a journey. There are so many paths to these places you’ll go, so many modes to help you on your way. Throughout each step in the journey we change and grow as individuals. Whether we take a plane, ride a bus, or choose to drive our own car the journey can be just as important as the destination. As I look back at my own education and contemplate my educational philosophy I know that the places I’ve been and the places I’ve yet to go have been and will continue to be learning experiences. I believe that the journey of education lasts a lifetime, every turn we take is a lesson learned. I hope to teach my students to learn from their successes as well as their failures and that life long learning is a journey worth taking.
I believe teachers have such an important role in this journey of education. I try everyday in my classroom to create an environment that is conducive to learning. I want students to feel comfortable trying and not afraid to make mistakes. These mistakes can be great opportunities for learning. I encourage students try to speak Spanish everyday, errors and all. An important goal of language learning is communication. This goal can never be met if there is constant fear of making mistakes. I respect my students and expect that they will respect each other and me as well. This environment of respect is important if students are to be free to learn and free to make mistakes without fear of ridicule or laughter.
Learning a second language can be a difficult endeavor for many students. Many of my students struggle at times and that’s ok too. Many students take Spanish only to fill their graduation requirement. I don’t expect that each student will be as excited about language and culture as I am. I do however hope to share my passion for the Spanish language, art, traditions and people with my students. I share stories and photographs of my trips to Spain. Whether they here by choice or by requirement, I hope to spark their interest enough to enjoy some aspects of the subject.
I love what I do. I enjoy getting to know my students as people and I think that is part of what makes me a good teacher. I am very involved in extracurricular activities at school because I believe they help to give the school life and heart. I am not a teacher who runs out the door at 2:20 when the bell rings. I am a cheerleading coach, class advisor and a classroom teacher. I go to athletic events, arts nights, school dances and more. I care about my students and they know it. The things a teacher does outside of the classroom can be as important as the daily lesson inside the room.
The success that Dr. Seuss wrote of is different for all students, just as the paths each one chooses will be as diverse as the students themselves. I hope to encourage each of my students to strive for their own successes in life. I try to instill the idea that wherever the road may take them, education is a ticket to many exciting journeys. Learning doesn’t end when the bell rings, nor when they receive their high school diplomas. Learning goes beyond sitting in a classroom. It is a venture that will only end when we close our mind to possibilities.
…you’re off to Great Places!
Today is your day!
Your Mountain is waiting.
So…get on your way!
Author:
Tara Cloutier
Last modified:
12/9/2003 6:00 PM (EST)
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