Education is a continuing process of learning accomplished through reading, life experience, daily discovery, and communication. I believe that learning is achieved through daily experiences, hands on theory, and teacher guidance. It is the goal of every student and the task of every teacher to increase knowledge and understanding in the classroom. The teacher should also be prepared to lead students in the direction they should go to reach correct conclusions and answers. Being able to solve problems and form solutions will benefit the student both inside and outside of the classroom. With the aid of the teacher the student will form opinions that substantiate what the instructor is attempting to accomplish.
     Teachers should be able to recognize that all children learn at different rates and require different teaching styles for effective learning to take place. I believe that a teacher should be a guide / facilitator on the child's sojourn through their educational experience. The teacher must help the student to discover through critical thinking, experimentation, and brainstorming. Education must be a two way street with each side equally engaged in the learning process. The teacher should constantly strive to ensure that the content is concise, current, and challenging for the students but not unachievable.
     A teacher must be compassionate toward the students needs and realize that each student is an individual with different ideals and cultures. The teacher must be able to relate to a wide variety of personalities and differences yet be capable to meet the challenge to educate the class as a group. The teacher must be committed to recognizing and addressing diversity in the classroom. I believe that the class should work as a team with each member adding his or her own individual expertise to the outcome.
     I feel that technology plays an important role in the development of a successful lesson plan. A learning experience coupled with interactive video, internet, and lively presentations will tend to keep the attention of the students and add excitement to the activity. Subject matter that is in touch with the current styles and cultures coupled with core- curriculum standards will create an atmosphere that is conducive to learning.
     I believe that the teacher as well as the student must continue on a quest for knowledge on a continuing basis. The teacher must stay abreast of current teaching theory and research in the education field. Learning, as stated earlier, is a lifelong process that feeds the mind as food feeds the body with both being a requirement for a healthy life. In order for a teacher to be successful he must know what to teach and how to teach it. The teacher must stay current in the field through classes, seminars and continuing education.
     I consider teaching to be an art, a labor of love that touches the hearts of those that the teacher comes in contact with. Teaching is a challenging profession that bestows rewards that are well worth the effort. To be a teacher is an honor and a passion that I feel privileged to be a part of.