Making my Vision Real

After reading over my “Vision Statement,” my “I Believe Statement,” and my “Philosophy of Education,” I realized that my thoughts about education are developing, but my beliefs have not drastically changed. My main belief about education is obvious in all three, and that is that I believe in an education for every child. I am a strong supporter of the public school system, but there are many schools that are unable to give their students the best education. Our schools shouldn’t have inequality amongst them or in them, and it is the responsibility of the government and the teachers to make sure this problem is corrected. Students should feel that they can excel and that their education is the very best. I strongly believe that within the classroom it is extremely important for the teacher to recognize the differences in his/her students and help create a sense of equality. As a social studies teacher, my students should not only understand history, but they should be able to think critically about it. Every child deserves the opportunity to become whatever they want, and every child deserves the education that will take them there.
In my current situation, it is not hard to see that many of the students aren’t trying their very best. The majority of the students I am teaching are freshman, and they don’t see the value that their education holds right now. There are a few students who do well because they want to do well, there are a few more that do well because their parents make them, then there are those who do just enough to get by, and then those who just don’t care at all. It is my goal to help all of my students do well because they truly want to do well. I think it is crucial for students to see the value in their education. I want my students to care about the stuff they learn and see how much of an impact it can be. In order to do this, I think the most important thing to do first is make the information relevant and exciting. When studying ancient history, the information can get boring, but if I can get the students to see the connection to the world we live in today, they may become more interested. I could also find interesting facts or information that the students may react to more and bring them up in class. Getting the students involved and curious about the information is important for them to learn.
In order to make the students feel equal, I will always acknowledge every student’s work. Some students may not like to be called on in class or read aloud, but I can comment on their work before or after class. I can make sure that there is a respect in the classroom so the students don’t feel uncomfortable or embarrassed to ask questions or make comments. I want the students to feel that they can comment on the material or ask for clarification without being judged by me and by the other students. If the students are comfortable and feel they are receiving equal treatment then this will create a much better learning environment. If there are those few students who don’t seem to care at all, and if I can’t get them interested then I will meet with them and see what might be going on. If the problem is not fixed there, then I will continue to try, and let the student know that I won’t give up.