Education is to guide a child.  Give them direction, but let them make their own discoveries along the way.  I believe a child can learn how and where to find the answers they seek through the help of a caring teacher.  For that child who says he has no questions, a teacher can help to open his world.

I believe education is for all children. There should be no barriers - whether physical, cultural or racial. All students should be given equal opportunities to grow intellectually, as well as creatively. Teachers should find ways to connect to each student -- to find that “Ah, ha!” in each student.

Exposure to the world of possibilities, either through the written word, technology or by experience, is the essence of learning.  Every student should be given the opportunity to learn, not just the basics like reading and writing, but about life and determination.

A good teacher can inspire young students to reach beyond their own limits.  Students should be given the gift to open their minds to new possibilities.  As Captain Kirk of the Starship Enterprise would say, “to boldly go where no (one) has gone before.” And teach students how to explore the “universe of information” available to them.

My prior career as a journalist has much to offer to students.  I believe each person has a story to share and in sharing, we learn from each other. Hopefully, we learn to respect and appreciate one another. I also believe in the power of the written word. Be it William Shakespeare or J.K. Rowling, literature offers students a chance to dream beyond their physical limits. Literature tells of dreams, miracles and events in history.

My goal as a teacher is to give to each student compassion, respect and encouragement to succeed, as well as challenges to help them grow. I hope to instill positive development within each child that will last a lifetime.