Personal Philosophy:
Spending time in Michigan's urban school districts has taught me an abundance about how the education system works: who holds power and privilege in making important decisions, and how sometimes certain groups of students get left behind in those decisions. I have been able to see first-hand how students in urban areas are slighted in funding and opportunities because wealthy, suburban districts have been favored- but I have also seen the abundance of heart and enthusiasm that can come out of these same urban schools. Working with students who face these inequalities head on, and push themselves to succeed- this gives me real meaning in being a teacher.
In studying education, I have come to learn that "school-taught knowledge" is largely based on the opportunities that students receive when attending school: what types of activities they are exposed to, the materials they are able to work with, the types of people they have the chance to meet- all of these factors create an education. It is my belief that students in urban areas cannot be slighted in these opportunities; it is my goal as a future urban educator to be an advocate for my students, and to make sure I provide for them all of the opportunities that could help them pursue their future dreams.
In studying education, I have come to learn that "school-taught knowledge" is largely based on the opportunities that students receive when attending school: what types of activities they are exposed to, the materials they are able to work with, the types of people they have the chance to meet- all of these factors create an education. It is my belief that students in urban areas cannot be slighted in these opportunities; it is my goal as a future urban educator to be an advocate for my students, and to make sure I provide for them all of the opportunities that could help them pursue their future dreams.
Me and my Urban Educators Cohort peers with our elementary school students.
