Betsy C. Snow
Philosophy of Education
Educate. Celebrate. Advocate. These powerful core values play an active role in my teaching and serve as guiding anchors in every aspect of my career.
Educate. Many years of teaching and parenting have guided positive changes in my philosophy of education. At the heart lies the belief that my students learn best by doing in a safe, nurturing environment. My role is to act as a guide and facilitator of student-centered learning. I believe my teaching should address all learning styles, include individualized instruction as well as cooperative learning strategies, and allow for self-discovery. In addition, the use of technology and hands-on learning are essential in order to connect concepts to the real world and give them relevance. Creating a safe, caring environment where students can feel that their differences are celebrated and that they are valued is essential. This type of climate encourages 21st century abilities such as creativity, risk-taking, collaborative problem solving, critical thinking, and communication skills. Most importantly, to be an exemplary educator means dedication to life-long learning. Ongoing reflection, research, and collaboration allow me to weave proven strategies with newly gained knowledge so that I am continuously honing my craft and striving for excellence.
Celebrate. In a world where there is much negative focus placed on education, I strongly believe that we must take time to celebrate successes, great and small. Students, as well as their adult role models, thrive on being recognized for a job well done or for an accomplishment in areas such as citizenship, creativity, academics, and attendance. Celebrating is a great way to build momentum and can serve as a catalyst for continuous improvement. Programs and activities I use include VIP student boards, Bucket Fillers, Student of the Week program, and Student Experts. Writing letters to parents and teaching children how to complement their peers are also very effective practices. As a teacher leader and mentor, I feel it is just as important to recognize deserving adults such as the administrative staff, other teachers, and hard-working parents. An added bonus is the fact that students begin to discover the intrinsic reward and pride felt in recognizing and encouraging others. All benefit from celebrating students and adults who make our schools a success!
Advocate. Teaching is the profession that creates all others. In the last few years, being an advocate for education has become my mission. It is a known fact that there is a shortage of qualified, effective educators in schools today. Many leave the profession within five years. Even worse, exemplary students interested in teaching are often discouraged from considering the profession. The charge of being an impetus for change and addressing this issue has resulted in my work of developing and implementing an elective course for middle and high school students called Introduction to Teaching Professions. Through this course, students gain insight and knowledge about teaching through project-based learning and hands on experiences in classrooms. As an educator called to the profession, it is my goal to utilize best practices, mentor new teachers, offer support and instructional coaching to others, and share ideas and strategies. It is an honor and privilege to be an advocate for education though leadership, communication, and service.
Philosophy of Education
Educate. Celebrate. Advocate. These powerful core values play an active role in my teaching and serve as guiding anchors in every aspect of my career.
Educate. Many years of teaching and parenting have guided positive changes in my philosophy of education. At the heart lies the belief that my students learn best by doing in a safe, nurturing environment. My role is to act as a guide and facilitator of student-centered learning. I believe my teaching should address all learning styles, include individualized instruction as well as cooperative learning strategies, and allow for self-discovery. In addition, the use of technology and hands-on learning are essential in order to connect concepts to the real world and give them relevance. Creating a safe, caring environment where students can feel that their differences are celebrated and that they are valued is essential. This type of climate encourages 21st century abilities such as creativity, risk-taking, collaborative problem solving, critical thinking, and communication skills. Most importantly, to be an exemplary educator means dedication to life-long learning. Ongoing reflection, research, and collaboration allow me to weave proven strategies with newly gained knowledge so that I am continuously honing my craft and striving for excellence.
Celebrate. In a world where there is much negative focus placed on education, I strongly believe that we must take time to celebrate successes, great and small. Students, as well as their adult role models, thrive on being recognized for a job well done or for an accomplishment in areas such as citizenship, creativity, academics, and attendance. Celebrating is a great way to build momentum and can serve as a catalyst for continuous improvement. Programs and activities I use include VIP student boards, Bucket Fillers, Student of the Week program, and Student Experts. Writing letters to parents and teaching children how to complement their peers are also very effective practices. As a teacher leader and mentor, I feel it is just as important to recognize deserving adults such as the administrative staff, other teachers, and hard-working parents. An added bonus is the fact that students begin to discover the intrinsic reward and pride felt in recognizing and encouraging others. All benefit from celebrating students and adults who make our schools a success!
Advocate. Teaching is the profession that creates all others. In the last few years, being an advocate for education has become my mission. It is a known fact that there is a shortage of qualified, effective educators in schools today. Many leave the profession within five years. Even worse, exemplary students interested in teaching are often discouraged from considering the profession. The charge of being an impetus for change and addressing this issue has resulted in my work of developing and implementing an elective course for middle and high school students called Introduction to Teaching Professions. Through this course, students gain insight and knowledge about teaching through project-based learning and hands on experiences in classrooms. As an educator called to the profession, it is my goal to utilize best practices, mentor new teachers, offer support and instructional coaching to others, and share ideas and strategies. It is an honor and privilege to be an advocate for education though leadership, communication, and service.