My philosophy is that all students can learn and should feel valued in the classroom. As a side benefit, I, as the teacher will be well-respected, which translates into fewer discipline problems and longer-lasting valuable learning moments. Students may hold themselves in even higher esteem when they are consistently shown respect by the teacher, and will also treat each other well.

My teaching philosophy also includes a consistent focus on the positive. For instance, when I tell a student about something that they will need to improve in their classwork (or conduct), I always start with a positive comment about the student's work. When I share a concern with a parent as well, I discuss something that the student is doing well, first. Students -- and people in general -- are usually more highly motivated by a focus on their merits.

Regarding my approach to teaching, I hold all students to the district's high standards. While planning lessons – which are based on initial student assessments – I use the student's various individual intelligences to create motivating, relevant, hands-on projects which my students often complete in pairs or cooperative groups. I identify and assist students who need extra help early on to make certain that they have every opportunity to succeed. I also confer with my fellow teachers and research as needed. I make sure that all of my students have a chance to reach their full potential and to meet or exceed the district standards, no matter how they best comprehend information.