I believe that each child is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially.  It is my desire as an educator to help students meet their fullest potential in these areas by providing an environment that is safe, supports risk-taking, and invites a sharing of ideas.  There are three elements that I believe are conducive to establishing such an environment:

• The teacher acting as a guide.
• Allowing the child's natural curiosity to direct his/her learning.
• Promoting respect for all things and all people.

Education is the responsibility of the student, the parent(s), and the teacher. Together, we are a team!

Life is about making choices, receiving consequences, and learning from our successes and mistakes. When I teach, I believe that a student...

• is the most important person in the school
• is not an interruption of my work-but the purpose of my work
• is not dependent upon me-but someone upon whom I am dependent
• is a key part of the education process-not an outsider
• is not a cold statistic-but a person with feelings like my own
• is a person who brings educational needs I have the privilege of meeting
• is deserving of the most courteous and attentive treatment I can provide
• is the person who makes it possible for the school to pay my salary
• is the lifeblood of this and every educational institution.