I believe that the classroom should be a comfortable, stimulating, safe place for children to learn.  I hope to foster an atmosphere of trust, respect, and comfort that allows children to share their discoveries with their peers. 

As a teacher, I am organized and deliberate.  My classroom has many procedures and routines, because consistency is vital to the success of a learning community.  Because my students know my expectations and procedures, there is a sense of mutual trust and understanding, and this confidence allows me to give them the freedom they deserve.  Once they understand their limits, they can truly explore their independence.

My rules are firm, but fair.  Children are involved in the development of the rules and the consequences if they are broken.  Rather than punishing a child for his poor behavior, I seek to give him the tools to positively manage his own behavior, communicating a sense of fairness and trust.  I know that he is capable of changing his actions, and I will give him the guidance to do so.

My classroom is a place of dialogue, interaction and activity.  My main goal is to prepare my students for life outside of school, and verbal interaction is an ideal way for them to practice communication, problem-solving strategies and critical thinking.  I encourage free-thought and discussion, and I enjoy allowing my students to take on the role of a teacher.

I think that there is more power in a compliment than a correction, and I try to praise each student individually and meaningfully.  I foster intrinsic motivation, independence and self-worth through high expectations and constant availability.  I believe that each child can learn something every day; it is my hope that they leave my classroom with the same conviction.