Experience Summary
Currently, I am a 7th Grade Social Studies teacher at an inner city school in Orlando. My perspective on the subject of education is unique due to my experiences in my first profession: television and communications. I was a news editor during Operation Iraqi Freedom and I had a unique look at file footage from both sides of the war. I learned first hand that every story has two sides. I bring this to my philosophy of education. I have excellent communication skills, and my research, grammar, and writing skills have been greatly improved by my documentary film production background. I have tutored my peers as a student, I taught adults how to read as a literacy volunteer in college, and now, professionally, I work with middle school students helping them to facilitate the skills necessary to succeed with their academic goals.
Teaching Style
Author and philosopher Kahlil Gibran says that a wise teacher "does not bid you enter the house of his wisdom, but rather, leads you to the threshold of your own mind". All students can learn, and each has the capacity that is unmatched by another. All students are unique. I believe that student centered learning is critical for retention, comprehension, and to increase prior knowledge. Hands-on learning can allow students to experience academics first hand. I am excellent at individual student assessment and I can create lesson plans based on current needs. I can adapt to learning struggles and provide alternatives to contemporary learning if necessary. An enthusiastic teacher can motivate any child and the give and take in a teacher/student relationship can improve both parties. I love what I learn from my students, and I value the responsibility of allowing them to learn from me.