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My Teaching Experience: 1st year at West Lake Middle School, 8 years experience as a Middle School Math Teacher.
Education: M. Ed. from University of Houston, Bachelors in Psychology from Sam Houston State University
My Hobbies/Interests: Reading, roller coasters, eating out, shopping, traveling, roller derby, watching TV.
My Family: My husband, Christopher and my two daughters Cadence (11) and Caitlin (8).
My Teaching Philosophy: I understand that students have a harder time engaging with and learning from a teacher they do not like, so I work hard to build relationships with each child. I recognize that kids are learning how to understand and control their emotions, so I try to understand the underlying cause of misbehavior. I appreciate that kids feel strongly and passionately about many things, and that their desire for learning can be met with this same excitement when they are confident, cared for, and loved. These are the reasons I feel so strongly about establishing a positive learning environment in my classroom. I use affective teaching strategies to promote a student centered classroom that allows children to feel safe, important and heard.
I acknowledge that each student is a unique person with a variety of strengths and weaknesses. I work to promote an environment of inclusion and acceptance, and strive to meet the needs of each child exactly where they are. I aim to create an engaging classroom where students have a voice, are actively involved in the learning process, and show respect and consideration for their peers. I want to frequently practice the 21st century skills of collaboration, critical thinking, creativity and communication in an effort to provide my students the best opportunities for success in the professional world. I want to prepare my students to not only to be successful for next year, but in life.
