Experience Summary
In my first teaching position, I worked with emotionally disturbed and learning disabled students at the elementary level in the South Bronx. This included providing individual, small group and whole class instruction to students with learning disabilities, emotional disturbances, and multiple disabilities. In my second and third year teaching, I worked at The Guild for the Blind on West 65th Street in New York City. It was a not-for-profit, non-sectarian agency that served persons of all ages who were visually impaired and multidisabled to achieve lives of dignity. In my particular class, there were six children, three assistants, one teacher and two health aides. All of my students were multiply and developmentally disabled and I had to accommodate all their levels of needs. I am currently teaching at a private Special Education school in Newton, MA. Here, I am teaching World History, Physical Science, English and Geometry in a small, structured classroom for students with learning disabilities. I truly value individuality, and strive to meet the needs of each student and their learning style. To accomplish this, I use a variety of hands-on activities and different teaching strategies. I also recognize the importance of trust and honesty, and providing a safe and comfortable, yet challenging, student-centered learning environment. Hunter College has helped develop my level of education and allowed me to focus on literacy as a specialty.
Teaching Style
As a four-year teacher, I have had the opportunity to create my own philosophy based on my experience. I have taught both regular and special ed. children and have the same philosophy for all my students. I truly believe that every child is capable of learning and as a teacher; I need to identify the best approach to meet the needs of each child. Once I get to learn about their learning style, I can accommodate their needs more efficiently. Every child is unique and has his/her own needs and abilities and deserves to be treated fairly. . I want the students to feel at ease within the classroom and not timid in the learning process. I teach as a constructivist where students not only learn, but internalize their own knowledge. Everything that I teach the children has a purpose. I also use alternative forms of assessment to assess ones students progress throughout the year. This includes both formal and informal assessments that allow me to know if a student is improving and where he or she needs extra help. When I teach, I have a multisensory approach to stimulate multiple intelligences. Everyone learns at a different rate and level and it is crucial to teach in a manner that accommodates all these needs. I set up an ideal inclusive classroom that promotes a supportive environment for each child. I always encourage students to think critically and analytically and use prior knowledge in all disciplines and promote creative thinking. I also try to incorporate technology for advanced learning. I always care and support children and create a vision for their future in which they become successful members of society.