Southern Elementary; special education

"My philosophy of teaching is built on the principles of building and maintaining relationships with each of my students straight across the board. I believe that once you have established that rapport with your students, you have laid the foundation for higher levels of engagement. When a child knows that you care, they strive harder to excel. I want them to know that I believe in them, but more importantly that they should believe in themselves. I want my students to know and understand the level of expectation not just for school but for everyday life.

"I always live by The Golden Rule: 'Treat others the way you want to be treated.' I treat each of my students with respect, and in return, they do the same for me. 

"I like to instill in them the importance of why we come to school, why we need a solid education to be successful individuals and that nothing comes free in life, but with hard work and dedication, the rewards are great.

"It is important to teach our students to strive to live a productive life and to choose the right path wherever they go. Each day that I come to work, I know that I am able to make a difference in a child’s life, and they are making a difference in mine. I am proud and honored to be a teacher."