Brandy Goff

 My Philosophy of Education

My Role as a Teacher:

I take my role as a teacher to be one of the most important aspects in a child’s learning.  As a teacher, I know that my character and beliefs will affect those around me.  I model to my students a positive attitude, acceptance, patience, and self confidence.  I believe that those attributes will help build strength, character, and self esteem in my students.  I strive to be a facilitator of my student’s learning by assisting in their understanding and construction of knowledge.  I also feel that it is my responsibility to build an environment that stimulates a child’s interest and promotes learning opportunities.  Another responsibility I think is very important to the success of a student is parental involvement.  Together teachers and parents can develop a working relationship to successfully develop the whole child.

The Student:

I believe that children are a blank slate at birth and learn best through their experience.  Children model the ideas and beliefs from those they are surrounded by.  I think that most children are naturally curious about the world around them and want to explore to make sense of it.  In return, I believe that children learn best through their interests or something that they can relate to that will build knowledge and make sense of their environment.

The Curriculum:

We use the Scott Foresman Reading Program along with Saxon Math and Phonics.  I also have daily handwriting assignments, journals, and reading logs.  We practice a letter a week and do fun activities that correlate with that letter.

My Teaching Methods:

My teaching methods for educating young children include materials that incorporate various learning styles.  I conduct activities with my students that are fun and exciting.  We usually have a cooking activity every Friday, play learning games, read books, and sing songs that help enhance memory and skills.

 Children strive on structure, and for that reason I use it in my methods of teaching so that students know what to expect.  I am flexible and use alternative teaching strategies for students who need extra support. 

Classroom Management

Rules for the Classroom

  I have designed rules so that the children are aware what is acceptable and what is not.  I want the children to treat others fairly and with respect.  I accomplish this by developing rules of conduct and then conferencing with the children about these rules during the first days of school.  The children may need to be reminded and redirected in behaving appropriately.  The list of rules will also be sent home with the children or given to parents during open house so that they too are aware of what is expected of their children in the classroom.  I have the parents go over the rules with their children at home and sign the bottom of the sheet so that both parties will have developed a full awareness of what is expected.

Appropriate Environment

The room is arranged so that it is attractive, yet functional.  I provide a print rich environment by offering a large variety of books ranging from easy to more challenging levels.  I also have materials that are designed for student use that are accessible and accurately labeled.  The room will also be conducive to learning by offering a variety of manipulatives that are designed for children to investigate and work with.  I believe that children learn through their environment and therefore the classroom should offer the students that opportunity.

Communicating with Parents

 I know that parents are a teacher’s most valuable asset.  They know their child better than anyone and can often give teachers insight into the character of their children. I think of parents as co-workers, from which to consult and work with in developing the whole child.  I strive to keep open communication with parents by making newsletters and having an open door policy.  The newsletters keep parents aware of activities and events that are taking place in the classroom.  I also use the newsletters to encourage parental involvement in their child’s education.  Having an open door policy also gives parents the opportunity to speak with me whenever they have an idea or concern.