What Qualities Make me a Worthwhile Teacher?

It’s always slightly awkward to compliment yourself. I hope to get through without sounding too arrogant about my own abilities.

Over my long and short practicum, I believe that I have shown steady development as a beginning teacher. My drive to consistently make improvements have been present since the beginning. Making my own handouts, assignments, activities, and lesson plans were well worth the time and effort. As I proceeded through the practicum, I was always open to taking in suggestions from my mentors and utilizing their experience. Furthermore, I tried to take risks in regards to teaching strategy. This included collaborative learning strategies that I wasn’t at first comfortable with. Activities such as placemats, whiteboarding, and value lines sometimes backfired but it was well worth the effort to attempt. This drive I possess has not diminished over time, I can’t wait to get back into the classroom and continue to hone my craft.

Another quality I brought to my teaching was the drive to make connections with students. I tried to establish a good rapport with each student by treating them with respect and care. I genuinely took an interest in all my students and took the opportunity to converse with students both in the classroom and out in the hallways. I don’t think it was ever forced, I just enjoyed the interaction. Extracurricular activities such as coaching the tennis team and working at the learning support center allowed me to work with students that I wouldn’t have normally been able to teach. In fact, some of the students that I remember the most have not been ones I taught in the classroom. Instead, working one on one either tutoring or playing tennis was an equally valuable endeavor.

 My Expectations and Responsibilities

As I mentioned in my educational philosophy. My responsibility is to ensure that each student is able to think critically and become aware of issues facing our global community. Guiding students into becoming socially responsible citizens is the ultimate goal. My expectations for my students are simple:
Give an honest attempt in their endeavors.
Ask questions at any time.
Ask for help whenever you need.
Treat peers and teachers with respect.