Educational Philosophy

I believe that education is an inalienable right which all people are entitled to and that this education should aim to develop the highest possible learning outcome and quality of life while respecting students' dignity, culture, language, and background.

One of the biggest obstacles when teaching history is convincing your students that your subject is both relevant and important. History is often seen by students as a collection of stories about people who have no relevance in our modern context. Though all history teachers believe that our subject is important, it takes a special talent to be able to convince students of this. History is not only about the past – it is about us. When we stare into the face of history, we stare into our own soul. History confronts us and challenges us to be better and to do better.

Developing strong skills in reading is absolutely crucial to a student's development. When we study history, we have to be able to move beyond the textbook. In my classroom, I will utilize historical texts rather than relying solely on a textbook.

By moving away from a textbook model and towards a primary source model, I will help my students reach higher levels of thinking and learning. Introducing students to historical events through primary sources will train students to think critically about perspective, credibility, and social progress.

In regards to my own development, I will remain humble by respecting the skills of other professionals from within and without of my own discipline. Accordingly, I will be willing and eager to collaborate with all professionals who can improve the lives of my students. I will also actively seek out the knowledge of parents and individuals rather than relying on my own expertise to problem solve. Maintaining communications with the home and other professionals is important, but it must be done with respect for privacy, confidentiality, and diversity.

Above all, I will act in the best interest of my students regardless of my own personal feelings. If I expect my students to listen to me, then I must have material that is worth listening to. I will work hard to always have information that is both valuable and engaging.