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Teaching Philosophy

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About Me

I never thought that I would become an educator. However, at the age of 18, I was invited to participate in a literacy enrichment program, helping children learn to read. That summer, I taught my very first class—a group of 10 kindergarteners. I remember feeling completely unprepared during that first week, doubting if I was truly cut out for teaching. But by the end of the program, everything changed. The children had learned so much, and witnessing their ah-ha moments captivated me. It was in those moments of growth and discovery that I realized the joy of teaching. That summer inspired me to pursue a path I hadn’t imagined for myself.

Since then, my journey in education has continued to shape my passion. Over the past three years, I have served as an ISS/ILR behavior instructor and spent two years as a reading teacher, working with students aged 6 to 12. These experiences taught me the importance of patience, adaptability, and the impact a supportive learning environment can have on students’ success.

What I stand for as an Educator

To me, education is about transformation. It is not just about what you learn but how you grow. I believe the true purpose of education is to empower individuals—to open doors, expand possibilities, and help students see the world and their place in it more clearly. Education should prepare you not only with knowledge but with confidence, creativity, and the ability to think for yourself. It should not just prepare you for a test but for life. I stand for education that is meaningful and applicable—learning that you can carry beyond the classroom and use to build a better future for yourself and your community.

As an educator, I stand for honesty, respect, and inclusivity. I believe learning happens best when students feel safe to express themselves, ask questions, and even make mistakes. I believe that everyone has the potential to succeed if they are met with patience, guidance, and belief in their abilities. My classroom is a space where we celebrate effort, persistence, and growth. I do not measure success by perfect scores but by progress—by how much you are willing to push yourself, engage deeply, and challenge your limits.

I also stand for connection. I do not believe that learning is a one-way street where I simply give and you receive. We learn together. I learn from your questions, your ideas, and your perspectives. I stand for a learning experience where we all contribute, collaborate, and create something meaningful. My teaching is not about control or authority—it is about partnership, discovery, and growth.

Lastly, I stand for lifelong learning. Education does not end when the bell rings or the course finishes. It is something that should live within you—a curiosity and passion that you carry with you into the world. My greatest hope is that when you leave my classroom, you leave not only with knowledge but with a love of learning and a belief that you can continue to grow throughout your life.

Expectations of Myself 

As your teacher, I will be your biggest supporter and strongest advocate. I will listen to you—not just to your questions, but to your thoughts, your concerns, and your goals. I will strive to understand you, because I believe that connection is the foundation of learning. I promise to show up for you—not only with knowledge but with empathy and care. When faced with something I do not know, I will never leave you without an answer. I will search for it or reach out to someone who can help us find it together. You will always know that you have someone on your side who is willing to work just as hard as you do.

However, I will also hold you to high standards, just as I hold myself. I will not tolerate disrespect because I believe that a healthy learning environment is built on kindness, trust, and understanding. In my classroom, we uplift each other; we do not tear each other down. I will not give you or accept mediocrity, because I know you are capable of more. Here, we think outside the box. We take risks. We push limits. I will expect your best effort, but I also understand that life happens—there will be hard days, and when those come, I will work with you. Whether you stumble or soar, I will be there to support you, guide you, and help you find your footing.

Expectations of Learners

In return, I expect you to meet me halfway. I expect you to come into this space with an open mind, a willing heart, and the courage to participate fully in your learning. I want you to be curious—to ask questions, to challenge ideas, and to seek understanding, even when it feels uncomfortable. This classroom is not a place to sit passively and memorize facts; it is a space to explore, discuss, and discover. I expect you to show up not only for me, but for yourself, because your education belongs to you. It is your voice, your growth, and your future that we are building together.

I expect you to embrace challenges, because true learning often happens outside of your comfort zone. You will fail sometimes, and that is okay—what matters most is that you try, reflect, and try again. When you encounter difficulties, I expect you to reach out for help rather than give up. Learning is not about perfection; it is about persistence. I also expect you to respect the voices and perspectives of your peers. We are a community, and our classroom thrives when everyone feels heard and valued. Listen actively, speak thoughtfully, and engage with one another in a spirit of understanding.

Above all, I expect you to believe in yourself. Even if you doubt your abilities, even if you feel lost, I ask you to trust the process. Trust that with effort, creativity, and a willingness to grow, you are capable of more than you imagine. If you bring that belief into this space, along with your hard work, there is no limit to what you can accomplish.

Teaching Philosophy

My primary goal as an educator is to create a safe and inclusive space where students feel empowered to learn, grow, and share their experiences. I believe that learning is a mutual process—one where we enrich each other through collaboration, curiosity, and open dialogue.

I also believe that education should have real-life relevance. Learning is most meaningful when students can apply their knowledge to their personal lives and future careers. That is why I use an integrated teaching style, blending knowledge from various subjects to help students build practical skills. I encourage my students to see how different disciplines connect and how these connections can be useful beyond the classroom.

Because every student learns differently, I design my lessons with flexibility and creativity. Learning should be fun and engaging—it is more than sitting quietly and reciting facts. I use immersive discussions and hands-on activities that allow students to interact with the material from multiple perspectives. Through open conversations and experiential learning, students not only develop critical thinking skills but also learn to appreciate diverse viewpoints.

Final Remarks

In my classroom, we are partners in learning. I promise to show up every day with passion, patience, and a belief in your potential. I will push you to think critically, challenge your assumptions, and step outside your comfort zone. But more than anything, I will cheer you on—because I know what you are capable of achieving.

I never expected to become an educator, but now I cannot imagine being anything else. The joy I found in teaching was born from witnessing students grow, and that joy continues to drive me. My commitment to you is simple: I will guide you, support you, and challenge you—because I believe in you. Together, we will not only learn, but we will grow. And when you leave my classroom, I hope you carry not only knowledge, but the confidence to face the world with curiosity, courage, and heart.

© 2023 by anaijah's Portfolio. All rights reserved.

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