Of what use it know that a few teachers can do outstanding jobs with the very students that others believe incapable of being taught? (p. 139)
I believe that all students are capable of being taught and that teaching to all students is a very serious undertaking. I view the most important role of a teacher is the obligation to make sure that the teaching I do in class is relevant to the students that I am teaching to. The key words of my teaching philosophy include relevance, love of my subject, enthusiasm, knowledge, organization, feedback, and respect. In essence, I strive to deliver to my students something worth knowing, convey it with enthusiasm, and provide my classroom with organization that will stimulate students to grow in their knowledge of the subject and to THEMSELVES!
Culturally relevant teaching is about questioning (and preparing students to question). (p. 140)
I feel that teachers need to be constantly reminded of these questions as they plan and prepare their curriculum. Remembering to create units that provide a “personalized education” for each student/classroom will undoubtedly create an educational opportunities that are aimed at preparing all students to be successful, not just in their own communities, but as “world-citizens.” When paying attention to crating personalized plans; attention is given to each student’s learning styles, interest, current skill levels, and personal goals. Students are motivated to learn and feel that the learning they are doing in your classroom is valuable—the “why do I need to know this stuff?” question—they feel they can be successful with the learning task.
I too believe and hope that if we can dream it, we can surely do it. (p. 156)My “beliefs” about the teaching profession…EVERY child deserves a teacher who believes in their potential, no matter the student’s circumstance and it begins with a teacher who can think outside of their classrooms—one that can get beyond textbooks and enter into a world where learning is connected.
The Dreamkeepers "Education, like electricity, needs a conduit, a teacher, through which to transmit its power- i.e., the discovery and continuity of information, knowledge, wisdom, experience, and culture. Through the stories and experiences of eight successful teacher-transmitters, The DreamKeepers keeps hope alive for educating young African Americans."
I believe that I have found a pattern from all of the readings... and that is everything is surrounded by "belief." Belief in oneself, their students, parents, partners, ideas, solutions, curriculum... and the list goes on and on.
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