My students are from predominately low income families. Many live in single parent homes. The children frequently come to me below grade level. They are well cared for, but do not always receive sufficient academic support at home. Our emphasis is on raising reading and math scores before they leave our Pre-K to third atmosphere.
Position:
Teacher
Needs:
I would like to have additional computers in my classroom. Today's students are comfortable using technology and prefer it to regular pencil and paper tasks. It is important that we teach them to use technology correctly from a young age.
I am also hoping to get some digital cameras to record the students projects and achievements. When they see themselves participating in a project, then they take ownership of that assignment. This is a great motivational tool.
And of course, I can always use additional reading material for the students, whether it be novels or magazines.
My Philosophy:
My philosophy is to first make the child feel safe and cared for. Learning is much easier in a safe environment. After that need is met. I look to ground their reading ability in phonemic awareness. I want to give them specific skills to attack the bigger words they will continue to come across as they advance in school. Without a set of skills for breaking the word into parts, they will not be able to read for all content areas.
Personal Information:
About Me:
I came to teaching late. I am already 50, but have only taught for five years. Before that I raised my own family. My children are now mostly grown. Four are married, two are in college, and one is still at home. Oh, and the best part is - I have my first grandchild on the way!
College and Degrees:
B.F.A. from Louisiana State University and Alternate Certification from Louisiana College
Favorite Books:
That's a hard one. One of my favorite authors is Pearl S. Buck. Her books are amazing. But the book that really stays with me is My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok.
Favorite Quotes:
Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
“The way to get good ideas is to get lots of ideas, and throw the bad ones away”
Dr. Linus Pauling
Interests:
My children are my first and foremost interest. And I might add that they are all doing very well. Reading would probably come next, but I do have a lot of other things that I like to do as well. I enjoy gardening, and I do lots of needlework including sewing, embroidery, and crochet.
Why Do I Teach?:
I ask myself this question often, especially at the end of a very hard day. The truth is I think I'm good at it. Unfortunately the "assessments" don't always show that I know what I am doing. But even when the "scores" aren't what I would like them to be, I feel in my heart that I am making a difference in the lives of the children.