
A TEACHER’s PORTFOLIO

My Teaching Philosophy and Goals
Building Relationships:
I believe that strong, positive relationships are the foundation of effective teaching and learning. I prioritize understanding and connecting with each student to create a supportive and engaging learning environment.
Personal Learning Endorsement:
I am endorsed in personalized learning, which reflects my dedication to tailoring instruction to meet the unique needs of each student.
Professional Learning
I have conducted professional learning classes for fellow teachers, sharing my expertise and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Creating Lessons and Curriculum:
I have a passion for designing creative and dynamic lessons and curricula that cater to diverse learning styles and foster a love of learning in students. My approach emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world application.
Lifelong Learner:
I model a growth mindset by embracing lifelong learning. I stay informed about the latest educational research and trends to provide the best possible learning experiences for my students.
Special Interests and Achievements
Community Building:
I have a talent for organizing community-wide events, such as the Empathy Museum, which bring together students, families, and community members to foster empathy and understanding. These events not only enhance community relationships but also enrich the educational experience.
Application-Based Projects and Testing Strategies:
I employ application-based projects and assessment methods that encourage students to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways. These strategies help students develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter and demonstrate their learning authentically.
Question Formulation Technique (Right Question Institute):
I use the Question Formulation Technique from the Right Question Institute to empower students to ask thoughtful and relevant questions. This technique promotes critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and student ownership of their education.
Aspiring Master's Degree
Seeking to start a master’s program this coming year to further enhance my teaching practice and contribute to the field of educatio
I will
by Wil Ennis
I will…
Be kind,
a presence of care,
cradling wonder, still finding awe,
safe spaces, inclusive realms,
guiding in lifelong learning.
Fostering creativity, innovation,
patience in practice, understanding in presence,
relationships and community,
growth, development, guidance and feedback.
Innovation, collaboration,
community and teamwork,
curiosity and exploration,
adapting to diverse needs,
knowledge, inspiration,
human essence embraced,
teachable soul,
ever unfolding.

FAQs
1. Tell us about yourself and your teaching background.
I'm an enthusiastic and dedicated educator with over 9 years of teaching experience. I have a strong background in inclusive special education and mythology, and I incorporate project-based learning, podcasting, and curation into my curriculum. I've also created an empathy museum to foster emotional intelligence and social awareness among students.
2. What motivated you to become a teacher?
I've always been passionate about education and the power it must transform lives. My motivation to become a teacher stem from my desire to make a positive impact on students' lives, help them discover their potential, and inspire a lifelong love for learning.
3. Can you describe your teaching philosophy and approach?
My teaching philosophy centers around creating a vibrant, nurturing, and inclusive classroom where every student can thrive. I believe in personalized learning, fostering social-emotional growth, and building strong relationships with students, parents, and the community. My approach is a blend of creativity and structure, encouraging students to take risks, explore new ideas, and develop critical thinking skills.
4. How do you handle classroom management and discipline?
I use a proactive approach to classroom management, setting clear expectations and fostering a positive classroom environment. I emphasize respect, responsibility, and collaboration. When discipline is necessary, I use restorative practices that focus on understanding the impact of behavior and finding constructive solutions.
5. How do you differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of your students?
I embrace diverse learning styles through differentiated instruction and student-led inquiry. I use various teaching methods, such as interactive learning stations, project-based learning, and technology integration, to cater to the unique needs and interests of each student.
6. What strategies do you use to engage and motivate students?
I incorporate real-world connections, interactive activities, and hands-on projects to make learning relevant and exciting. I also use technology, such as podcasts and digital curation, to engage students and provide opportunities for creativity and collaboration.
7 .How do you integrate technology into your teaching?
I use the 7 Tech Process that Every Teacher Should Know. (I’ve taught this to teachers) technology to enhance learning and make it more interactive and accessible. This includes creating podcasts, using digital tools for project-based learning, and incorporating multimedia resources to support diverse learning styles.
8. Can you give an example of a successful project or lesson you've implemented?
One successful project was the creation of the empathy museum. Students researched and curated exhibits that showcased different perspectives and experiences, fostering empathy and understanding among their peers. The project was highly engaging and had a lasting impact on students' social-emotional growth.
9. How do you communicate and collaborate with parents and colleagues?
I maintain open and consistent communication with parents through newsletters, emails, and regular conferences. I collaborate with colleagues by sharing resources, participating in professional development, and working together on interdisciplinary projects to enhance student learning.
10. How do you support students' social-emotional development?
I integrate social-emotional learning principles into my teaching, focusing on building strong relationships, fostering emotional intelligence, and creating a compassionate classroom community. I also provide opportunities for students to practice empathy, resilience, and self-regulation through various activities and projects.
11. What are your strengths as a teacher?
My strengths include my dedication to personalized learning, my ability to create an inclusive and supportive classroom environment, and my innovative approaches to teaching. I am also skilled in building strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, which enhances the overall learning experience.
12. What is a weakness or area for improvement in your teaching?
One area I've been focusing on improving is my work-life balance. My passion for teaching often drives me to dedicate extra hours to planning and supporting my students. To address this, I've been implementing more efficient planning strategies and setting clearer boundaries to ensure I maintain my energy and enthusiasm in the classroom.
13. How do you stay current with educational trends and best practices?
I stay current by participating in professional development opportunities, attending conferences, and engaging in online communities. I also collaborate with colleagues to share resources and strategies, ensuring that my teaching practices remain up-to-date and effective.
14. How do you assess student learning and adjust your instruction accordingly?
I use a variety of assessment methods, including formative assessments, summative assessments, and student self-assessments. I analyze the data to identify areas where students need additional support and adjust my instruction to meet their needs. I also provide timely and constructive feedback to help students improve.
15. Why are you interested in working at our school/district?
I am impressed by your school's commitment to inclusive education and innovative teaching practices. I believe my skills and teaching philosophy align well with your mission, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your school community and support the success of your students.
16. How do you handle stress and maintain work-life balance?
I handle stress by practicing self-care, setting boundaries, and prioritizing tasks. I also use efficient planning strategies and delegate when necessary to ensure that I maintain a healthy work-life balance. This helps me stay focused and energized in the classroom.
17. What are your professional development goals?
My professional development goals include pursuing a master's degree, enhancing my skills in technology integration, and continuing to develop innovative teaching practices. I am committed to lifelong learning and continuously improving my teaching to provide the best possible education for my students.
18. Can you discuss a time when you faced a challenge in the classroom and how you overcame it?
Once, I had a student who struggled with behavior issues and lacked motivation. I worked closely with the student to understand their needs and implemented individualized support strategies. By building a strong relationship and providing consistent encouragement, I was able to help the student improve their behavior and academic performance.
19. How do you incorporate diversity and inclusion into your teaching?
I celebrate diversity by incorporating diverse perspectives and materials into my lessons. I create an inclusive classroom environment where all students feel valued and respected. I also use differentiated instruction to ensure that all students can access the curriculum and succeed.
20. Do you have any questions for us?
Yes, I do. Could you tell me more about the professional development opportunities available for teachers at your school? Additionally, how does your school support collaboration among teachers and encourage a positive school culture?