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Children are a vital strength in our community. Each child in his/her own unique way has the potential to make a difference. It has been my goal as an educator to provide an environment that encourages growth academically, socially, physically, and creatively. Lifelong learning is the key to a child’s development as a responsible and caring individual who values a sustainable environment. It all starts in the classroom and eventually ripples out to the global community.

  I believe that activity based, relevant and integrated experiences involve risk-taking, problem solving, and decision making moments. Each learner approaches these activities at his/her own developmental rate whether in an independent or cooperative activity. It is at such moments that children construct their own knowledge and are motivated to become lifelong learners. But it is important that each child has ownership of his/her own learning, which I believe will motivate him/her internally towards taking the responsibility one needs. As a teacher, I not only play an important role as a facilitator, but as a learner, too.

  There should be an open partnership with parents and students. This relationship encourages a cooperative atmosphere and elicits consistent support while respecting all cultural differences.

  My influential years were spent growing up in Boise, Idaho. There were many experiences which have fostered the belief system I reflect in my teaching. Camping, fossil hunting, snow skiing, sailing are a few of these memorable experiences. Our family traveled to many places within the United States always taking advantage of the opportunities to learn from the community of that area.

  My teaching experiences started in Boise, Idaho (1976-1984) while obtaining a Master's degree in Reading and Language Arts from the University of Oregon in Eugene, Oregon. Then, I ventured to Colombia, South American and taught at The Columbus School from 1984-1990. Afterwards, I went to Taipei American School in Taipei, Taiwan from 1990-1997. My teaching experiences and travels within these different cultural settings have given me opportunities which have extended my learning and elaborated the goals I want to exemplify.

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Page constructed by Chris Borgen

Wednesday, November 29, 2006