I want to make a difference in the lives of students. I will do this in my words and actions as a teacher. As an educator, I want to create an environment in my classroom that will encourage students to learn the subject matter and be pushed to reach their full potential. I want each student to develop as a critical-thinking, well-rounded citizen. I will accomplish these things by making sure to know students in my class well enough to motivate them in the work they are doing, as well as point out when I know that they can put more effort into their work. I want each student to know that I believe that he or she can succeed. This will be accomplished with continual feedback to students, as well as specific praise when I see students performing at a level that is worthy of positive recognition. I also want my classroom to be a place where students feel safe and confident in the educational experience, so every student will have an equal opportunity to learn. I will create this environment by clearly stating the classroom and school rules, placing a high standard on respecting other students, and also impress upon students that they have to be honest in class. I also want to create an environment that allows students from all cultural backgrounds to be successful. I want to teach tolerance and appreciation for students who encompass a variety of cultural backgrounds. Finally, I want it to be very apparent that I am very passionate about history, the subject that I am teaching. This enthusiasm should be clearly seen in my joy and excitement when I present the subject matter, and why I think it is so valuable to learn.
