PHILOSOPHY
My Philosophy
Schoolwide Teaching Philosophy
Let us provide an environment where we can thrive and learn together at the very foundation of our learning community. My approach to teaching focuses on research-based practices, connection, and whole, student-focused teaching that supports, motivates, and educates all students.
Research-Based Excellence:
I base my teaching on the current educational literature for the best learning. I use research-based practices like differentiated instruction, formative assessments, inquiry-based learning, UbD, and active learning to accommodate all our students. This school's ethos is that all students are stretched and helped reach their full potential.
Warm and Inclusive Environment:
The most important thing is having a warm, inclusive classroom. I’m about connecting with students and appreciating each student’s individuality and experiences. In a safe, non-discriminatory environment, students are free to voice themselves, experiment, and fully engage with learning.
Holistic Approach:
I’m a whole-child educator because I believe kids are most successful when intellectually, physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially developed. I try to draw on cross-disciplinary concepts that relate learning to the real world. This is good for academic study, emotional intelligence, and social responsibility.
Relevant and Engaging Learning:
It has to be relevant to motivate and keep students. Education becomes meaningful and interesting when you link it with context and today’s issues. Whether through project-based learning, engagement in our local community, or the discovery of world problems, I let students learn to think critically and creatively about knowledge.
Personal and Inspiring Engagement:
I have a heart to make all students fall in love with education. Sharing my passion is how I’ll make students dream big and have a lifetime love of learning. By including innovative projects and experiences for students to explore, a culture of innovation and inspiration exists in the school.
Empowerment and Student-Centered Learning:
I teach with students in mind, allowing them to be part of the process. Through student choice and voice, I help students become autonomous, lifelong learners. This empowerment provides ownership and the capabilities to survive in a changing world.
So here we have it: My school philosophy is committed to providing a wonderful education for each child in mind and heart. I teach our students to be intelligent, capable, and caring human beings who can make a difference in the world through the combination of research, practice, and holistic growth.
AI in schools - Yes or No?
Mission
I am dedicated to fostering inclusive, engaging learning environments prioritizing student well-being, development, and academic success through innovative curriculum design and data-driven teaching methodologies.
Vision
As an experienced educator and leader, I thrive in creating inclusive, data-driven learning environments that value student development, well-being, and academic performance. I use my cross-cultural communication skills and educational leadership to develop strategic initiatives that promote community engagement and improve learning outcomes.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Different international institutions have emphasized the relevance of education to developing citizens who contribute to achieving the SDGs for 2030. However, a review focused on physical education (PE) has yet to be performed. I believe there are several SD Goals that can be addressed in Physical Education. What I have written here is an attempt to highlight the SDGs I can incorporate into my classes, and where they might sit.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSIVITY
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion — I strongly believe in this because I believe they are moral requirements and fundamental to creating more creative, successful, and just societies and organizations. Diversity is a way to a better future for everyone and a cause we should all support. It is also very personal. My older son Conor was adopted by us when he was 3 weeks old when we were in Seoul. Some of the dumb, grotesque, racial abuse he has suffered breaks my heart. Go back where you came from is racist, to the point of burning me. Read More by clicking the button.
RECENT EXPERIENCE
Achieve Xiamen International School Fujian China
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2023-2024
PYP PE Teacher and Coach (PS-Grade 3), EAL K Grade 1 Grade 2
Concordia International School Shanghai
2018 - 2023
Early Childhood Specialist Music and Movement Teacher
(Pre-school to Kindergarten)
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Concordia International School Shanghai
2017 - 2018
Elementary PE Teacher 2017-2018 PS-Grade 4)
“The core of education is the relationship between the teacher and the student, and the extent to which that relationship nurtures the longing of the child to matter in the world, and the longing of the teacher to nurture and fulfil that desire.”
–Timothy Shriver and Jennifer Buffet
EDUCATION
University of South Australia
1985 - 1988
Certifications
On QUALIFICATIONS page
Bachelor of Education
Majoring in Physical Education and English Literature