I believe that in order to educate well, a teacher must address social and emotional needs equally as much as academics. I do this through relationship building and three guiding values. Our daily practices are founded upon the following values: respect, curiosity, and perseverance. These behavioral mindsets set in motion our learning in a freeing and enjoyable environment. 

         It is my hope for all of my scholars that they learn to respond to themselves and others with genuine kindness and empathy resulting in mutual respect and openness. This looks like daily table talks with peers where they listen and share ideas to receptive ears or practicing treating others the way they want to be treated. Respectful behavior expectations are set through circle conversations, praising one another, and healthy conflict resolution. Differences in experience are heard and celebrated during these moments. Learning to provide respect to others, our space, and ourselves will serve my students a lifetime.

          Our more academically aligned value, curiosity, manifests itself in a variety of ways. Having a healthy sense of inquisition prepares students for their academic, college, and professional career. It is my hope that they ask questions and have the skills to follow through and discover the answers. Students utilize conversation with peers, myself, and  technology to meet their needs. Self-selected classwork through menus and teacher developed workstations of choice provide students to engage in material that intrigues them and remains true to the state standards.

      Educating is a work of commitment. Perseverance is a trait I need as much as my students do. The field of education flourishes because of teachers pressing into the difficulties the field presents and doing the work anyway. My students need this value of perseverance to reach their own definitions of success. As a group, we defined this mindset as refusing to give up when things get tough. Our team is aware that we will face challenges, and that can be scary. However, doing your best despite push back and fear is what matters. We practice perseverance through pressing on during the chaos and struggle of life and academics. Our specific setbacks have been most recently district assessment and natural disaster. The campus I work at is in a flood zone and is constantly susceptible to tumultuous weather. Pressing on during challenges will allow for students to reach their personal and academic goals. 

          Recently I told a friend considering becoming an educator that there is no job more rewarding than teaching.  I do not think I will ever have a more important role. It is terrifying, edifying, heartbreaking, and joyful. It comes down to knowing your kids and giving them tools to navigate life. In my three years, I have learned if I am not preparing my students beyond the state mandated curriculum, I am doing them a great disservice. Education must address the entirety of the student. For me that has been building relationships and our three pillars that will impact the remainder of my career and life. That is my hope for my students as well. 

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