Great Expectations

First of all, no two teachers are alike, just as no two students are alike. 

My teaching philosophy is simple:

Learning is something we do for ourselves. The goal of an education is to help students become independent learners and independent thinkers. Becoming independent will help students build the skills necessary to be successful in life, no matter what their life plan is.
I am a guide. I do not know everything, and I will not pretend to. I hope to stimulate curiosity in my students, help students develop, open their minds to global thinking, foster pride in our community, empower students with self-confidence and self-respect, and engage in the learning process with my students.

Learning should be fun. Learning might be noisy. But through it all, education is the focus.

What I expect from students:

• Be responsible.
• Be prepared.
• Be focused.
• Be present.
• Be pro-active. Ask questions when you have them. Do what you need to do to learn.
• Be a participant in your own education.
• Be willing to work together.
• Give effort.
• Study. You can't expect to become good at anything if you never practice. 
• Don't hold back, don't resist trying.
• Show respect.

• Respect classmates, even if you don't always like them.
• Respect instructors, especially subs.
• Respect guests. The door to my room is always open for administrators, district guests, observers, college students, and parents. When we have guests, we are at our best.
• Most importantly, respect yourself. Give yourself a chance to succeed. Don't be your own worst enemy.
• Practice positive thinking.
• Negativity is contagious, and I don't want it. Drop any bad moods or attitudes at the door.
• "I can't" simply is not allowed. Unless it is followed by the word "yet". "Yet" is powerful. "Yet" implies optimism, confidence, and the belief that you will.
• Gossip and drama have no place in my classroom. 
• Take risks. Participate even when you are not sure.
• Believe in yourself and each other.

What students can expect from me:

• I will be your cheerleader. I will never tell a student they cannot learn.
• I will be prepared and engaged. When you are in my classroom, you have my attention.
• I will mix it up as much as I can. I will try to keep the class out of ruts of monotony and boredom. But, I will always do what I think is best for our learning.
• I will be relaxed and try to keep the class as fun and comfortable as students allow, while still creating an effective learning environment.
• I will be there for you when you need help. I will match the extra time you are willing to put in to learn. I will hold you responsible. I will not accept excuses.