What am I capable of?
I am capable of inspiring generations to come. A teacher is so much more than someone who teaches Math, English, and science. I will instill kindness in my Students! My classroom will be a place of community, Where everyone belongs. I will foster curiosity, a thirst for learning, generosity with others, & courage to overcome hardships.
I am capable of being an incredible teacher, wife, future mom, writer, & artist, full of joie de vivre, compassion, kindness, & honesty.
A Shift in a Frame of Mind...
When asked the question, "what am I capable of?" it is easy to fall into an "I think" pattern. Previously, I would have shied away from that question, feeling awkward, before putting something down. But now, as a 30-year-old who is continually growing and learning, I find myself editing out “I think I am capable” and replacing it with “I am capable.” I feel confident, and I proud to be me: a woman who is kind, who loves teaching and learning. It feels like my whole life has been preparing me for this moment, and I am excited!
Teaching is...
The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery.
― Mark Van Doren
One of the beauties of teaching is that there is no limit to one’s growth as a teacher, just as there is no knowing beforehand how much your students can learn.
― Herbert Kohl
Teaching is truth mediated by personality.
― Phyllis Brooks
My Values
Kindness
When a classroom frames their way of thinking through kindness, community develops. One of my friends, a teacher of a grade 4/5 class, recently told me while preparing for a school year with COVID-19: "My first priority is building community. If I don't do that, I've lost them from the start."
Teaching with kindness and instilling this value into my students is paramount to creating a successful classroom!
Bravery and Honesty
Life gets hard sometimes! There will be challenges that my students, the administration, and I will all face. COVID-19 is a prime example. It can be hard in the midst of these kinds of challenges to be honest with how we're doing. But, when we take a step forward, despite our fears, and reach out to others, that shows true strength.
A Love of Learning
Learning is obviously at the heart of a classroom. This is not just limited to the academic disciplines (though this is obviously very important!), but also translates into how we develop as human beings. When we are curious, open to new perspectives, thoughtful, respectful, and willing to participate in an exchange of ideas, we grow as people. Learning is a lifelong process that continually shapes us and our relationships. Asking questions and active listening are key!
