As a teacher, it is my belief that all children are able to learn, that the differences among children are what make them special, and that each child deserves the best that I can give him or her.

Throughout my time in Pekin PDS, I have found that I must work to serve each individual child. To do this, I must learn about the child in his or her entirety. To best teach children, you must know about their interests, their likes and dislikes, their hopes, their fears, along with their abilities, strengths, weakenesses, and learning styles. Once you know the child the best you can, only then can you truly teach the child. 

It is very important for teachers to understand that each child may need different tactics to help them learn. Though all children can learn, it takes different keys to unlock the learning for different children.  Some children need to work collaboratively whereas other students may need individualized attention from their teacher.  It is absolutely critical that teachers are willing to continue trying keys until they find the one which opens the lock.

 Teaching is not for the faint of heart.  It is a profession which demands your very best 100% of the time.  Each child needs you to give them your best every day. Those who choose to be a teacher will find themselves completely absorbed into the world of the children in their classroom.  This year, I have worked harder than I have ever worked in my entire life.  I have given everything of myself and been refilled by watching my students as their lightbulbs come on each day, as they learn new information and apply it right before my eyes.    This year has shown me what teaching is all about.