Commitment to Student and Student Learning

Community Helpers – Firefighter Stephen

I place great importance on commitment to student and student learning in my classroom. In my teaching philosophy I want to enrich student learning through real-world connections and making learning interactive. By bringing a firefighter into the classroom, I am helping students make connections between what they learn in school and the real world. This can make learning more meaningful and engaging for students. During the presentation, students were so engaged in what Firefighter Stephen had to say they asked so many meaningful questions. Firefighter Stephen talked about fire safety, what students need to know during a fire, and what firefighter do for the community. Firefighter Stephen even brought in his gear to show the students, I had a chance to put it on. The students loved seeing me become a fire fighter as well!

Alexa’s Letter

At the end of first practicum, a grade 3 student wrote a letter expressing the care and commitment that I provided. This student made a connection with me and my lessons on 3D shapes. A component of my teaching philosophy focuses on the importance of implementing a free, inspiring, and caring environment where students’ feel empowered to share their knowledge and reflections.

In my classroom, students will feel cared for, feel that they can take risks in the classroom and feel empowered. Students will feel connected by the support of their peers and educators. My intention and hope are that students will feel a strengthened bond not only with their peers but also with me through this environment and open discussions.

Classroom Management and Self Regulation

In my classroom practice course, I created a response plan on the importance of social emotional learning in a kindergarten classroom. The case study was based on a JK student that often loses his temper if he doesn’t get his way, yelling and screaming at anyone who frustrates him. His temper keeps the class on edge and none of the other students want to work or play with him. In my response plan, I focus on the class room management strategies that I will implement in my prevention, immediate, intermediate, and long term response with this JK student.

This case study showcases how I will be tackling difficult situations in my classroom and the importance of establishing a caring and responsive environment with my students, parents, and other professionals. I bring emphasis on mental health by providing a safe, caring environment where students can learn how to develop problem solving and coping strategies in the classroom.

Through social-emotional learning, I plan an effective curriculum that encompasses self regulation and well-being techniques. Students will learn about various emotions and skills related to processing those emotions. As well, making students feel known by demonstrating care and genuine interest, they foster a positive ongoing interaction that supports conversations about their needs, experiences, and aspirations.