I believe in a child-centred approach to teaching where the child is the central focus of planning and instruction. I will make sure that every one of my students feels like they belong and know that they are a valued part of my classroom.

 

As an educator, I believe in the fair treatment of students. However, I understand that to treat students fairly and equally does not mean to treat every student the same. Every student is different; they each have different experiences and circumstances that affect their learning; each student should be given the personalized support that allows them to access the curriculum and succeed alongside their peers.

 

I promise to always ask "why" before I discipline my students; by asking "why," a teacher begins to understand the reasons behind the behaviour to understand the message the behaviour intends to send rather than merely discipline the child. I believe in setting rules, not to limit my students but to provide the boundaries and structure for a safe learning environment.

 

I want my students to understand that learning is not confined to the four walls of the classroom, to know that authors' messages are not restricted to the pages of the book. I want my students to think beyond the classroom, think beyond what they simply read, and think about and question how one thing relates to the other. I want my students to take what they learn in my classroom and be able to apply it elsewhere in their lives. I hope to teach my students in a way that allows them to adapt to this ever-changing world.

 

I promise to remember that I am not the only "teacher" in the classroom to continuously learn from my students and learn alongside them.