In today’s society, educators wear many different hats.

Arguably, more than ever

before. One of the most important duties of a teacher, however, is to prepare children

and young adults for a successful transition into the “real world”. In order to accomplish

this transition, teachers are required to provide a unique type of education. As an

educator, I will utilize my values and beliefs to provide my students with the best

education possible in order to aid in their preparation for the real world.

In order to prepare today’s learners for the real world, it is important to

acknowledge the necessity of teaching the “whole child”. As an educator, it is my duty to

provide students with essential knowledge and soft skills that they can carry with them

throughout their lives. This acquisition of knowledge and skills may develop through the

use of a school curriculum. On the other hand, it may not. Either way, my main goal is to

aid students in their pursuit of becoming successful citizens of society.

In order to guide students towards success, I believe that there are a handful of

different factors to consider. First, I believe that every student, no matter their skin color,

background, sexual orientation, or gender, deserves the right to quality education. In my

classroom, I will provide a safe, secure, and nurturing environment where students can

flourish to become the best versions of themselves. The most growth occurs when

students feel comfortable enough to step outside of their comfort zones.

I also believe in the power of collaboration. The ability for students to collaborate

with their teachers, and their fellow classmates, is a powerful tool for success. It allows

ideas to flow freely, it inspires creativity, and provides helpful feedback. Additionally,

collaboration is a skill that students can take with them as they venture on to college or

into the workforce. Teachers can ensure successful collaboration in their classrooms by
creating a positive classroom environment and by fostering positive relationships

between students.

In addition to collaboration, I believe in the power of student choice. The modern

learners of today flourish in the classroom environment where there are options laid out

before them. Students find school more enjoyable if they are able to make meaningful

choices in the classroom because they have the opportunity to take ownership of their

learning. Students who are able to take ownership over their learning will be, overall,

more successful. At the end of the day, my students’ success is the most important task

that I will work towards achieving.

Today’s youth require a different type of learning. They require learning that is

hands-on, relevant, and takes place in an environment that is safe and secure. I have

seen the success of this approach throughout my experiences as a paraprofessional

and as a student-teacher. I plan on harnessing this experience and bringing this

knowledge forth into my own classroom.