Total Pageviews

Thursday, February 18, 2016

My Philosophy of Education

 I must provide a statement of my educational philosophy, rather than to allow others to make assumptions about my philosophy or rely on the opinions of other parties, or third-party hearsay.
I believe in the Vision and Mission of Kennesaw State University. I believe in compliance with local, state and federal laws. I believe that an atmosphere of inclusion is empowering. I do not believe in “My way or the Highway!” 
I believe in equal treatment, and equal access for all students. I believe that students should not be excluded based on race, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, body size, financial resources, or belief systems. I feel that students should have the opportunity to grow, learn, and develop their best personal self.
I believe in rigor with relevance, teaching students higher order thinking skills, explaining the how and why behind their instruction, in quality over quantity; and allowing students to become engaged learners.
I believe in teaching students to be respectful of their peers, the adults in the community and society at large, and to be respectful to all of their instructors. I believe in treating everyone with respect.
I believe that students should have equal access to equal educational opportunities, resources, equipment, learning tools, building access, and funding.
I believe in collaborative learning and teaming. I believe that if the learners participate in the creative process and innovation, they move into researched, brain-based, higher order thinking and learning.

I believe in teaching and instructing the student/learners. Whether they are writing an essay, learning to dance, playing an instrument, scientifically investigating, learning about non-discrimination and inclusion, or even twirling a flag, saber, or rifle, I believe that researched-based instruction and learning goals are paramount. I believe that having these skill sets led me to gaining knowledge in my career as an educator and as a continuous learner myself.  
Rise UP
I am going to rise up 
and renew my drivers license today
before my birthday,
because I must,
and moreso because I CAN.
I will do this in honor 
of those who didn't get the privilege of getting to my age:
David, Tam, Wayne, Patrick, Tim, Scott S, Chris C, Dewyane,
Herman, Birmingham Gary, Jim, Alan, Andrea,.
All 17 of my students who passed in car wrecks
and suicides due to bullying.
All 28 friends who died of Aids,
My Uncle Larry who died in Vietnam at age 20,
Karen S , the flag girl who was raped and murdered,
and the many others.
Let's cast off our privileges .
Count our blessings.
And RISE UP!