Teaching today demands more than just caring about children and knowing one's subject well. Teachers need to find out what motivates children and how to create environments in which learning thrives.  My philosophy on teaching and learning is a composite of my own experiences as a student and a teacher, my background in education and psychology, as well as my life experiences, readings and studies. 

I believe that students learn best when they are in a positive, safe and comfortable environment that allows for various types of learners to experience success through communication and multiple approaches to problem resolution.  Through our teaching strategies and classroom management, we can help create the conditions that will develop a disciplined and progressive life both inside and outside the classroom.

In my classroom students will be responsible for their choices and the consequences these actions have on themselves and others.  Students will be expected to treat themselves and others, including peers, teachers, assistance, parents and volunteers, with respect. As long as students are able to be respectful and responsible for their actions and decisions, my classroom will be a pleasant, productive learning environment.    

I have a high tolerance for noise and commotion, as long as my students are on task and being productive, I will encourage discussions and peer help, during appropriate times.  Students will also be encouraged to represent knowledge in forms other than traditional algorithms as well as express solutions to problems in multiple ways.  I will attempt to teach using a variety of strategies that help all students gain a more complete understanding of the material.