Philosophy & Values
My Educational Philosophy:
Fostering Independence
In my ideal classroom, community-based practices like morning meetings, classroom jobs, and collaborative work would take center stage. Students would thrive in an environment where responsibility and respect are paramount, each child contributing uniquely as part of our classroom team. Teamwork would be the backbone, underlining that together we can accomplish what might be challenging alone. Fostering independence, students would be inspired to attempt tasks on their own or seek help from peers before turning to the teacher for guidance.
Proactive Discipline
My classroom will be a safe space for all students. Through proactive discipline, it is my goal to attain a level of reciprocal respect between teacher and student so that conflicts may be worked through more effectively. I plan to engage in genuine 1:1 discussion often in order to build meaningful classroom relationships. My emphasis will always be to encourage positive, desired behaviors, rewarding students' engagement & enthusiasm.
Interest-Fueled Activity
I strive to prioritize student engagement by allowing more freedom of choice in planned activities. I believe learning happens best when students truly care and have personal attachment to the subject. Especially in early grades, I want to model how to make connections between personal interest and classroom subjects so they may take this strategies with them in their educational career. For example, mathematics can be complicated and disinteresting to some young learners. Thankfully, almost anything can be used as a model for math equations, especially when developing that key 1:1 correspondence.
My Personal Values
As a teacher, I recognize my responsiblity to be an explemlary role model for my students. Especially with young learners, teaching through example is best. "I do, we do, you do." To get to know me as a well-rounded mentor for students, here are some of my personal values I carry into the classroom with me.
(L to R) Cara, Lauren, Leah, & James McGettigan
Strong Family Values: loyalty, trust, love
My dad is the youngest of seven siblings, so I come from a large Irish family! My cousins, big & little, are so important to me. My "baby" cousins, pictured here, fostered my inital love of children. They were the first babies I babysat, my first pupils, the first diapers I changed! Watching them grow up is one of my many joys & blessings in this life.
All families look different, but there is always love!
Honesty & Communication
I am incredibly talkative and personable, which benefits me in every career opportunity. In the classroom, I choose every word with care. Getting my message across as succtinctly as possible. One of my great former teachers taught me, "Say exactly what you need to in as few words as possible" and I have kept that lesson close to me!
Lifelong Learner
A true educator never stops learning, and I love to develop new skills and talents! In my previous work in childcare centers I was introduced to sign language for babies and young children. This is a skill I always have interest in persuing and learning more about, especially when it relates to classroom materials or communciating. Recently I have rediscovered mountain biking and I love to explore new trails and learn more about local flora & fauna.
Reflective Practioner
I pride myself in being a consistently reflective educator. West Chester University provided me with really fantastic habits. My most meaningful assignments were oral 1:1 interviews/reflections about lessons both written and implemented. It's now part of my nature to reflect on every lesson and interaction with students. What can I learn from this? How can this be improved next time? A successful educator is one that is consistently growing.