I have seen the public school system in motion over 12 years now and have seen ways that

I could improve my approach to teaching. I enjoy doing community outreach programs and developing leaders. My philosophy of education does not just teach students to regurgitate information but teaches critical thinking and problem solving. So the philosophy of education that I have developed involves leadership, service, and moral development. Teaching music deals with more than learning how to read notes. A great deal of music involves leadership. The music classroom is the training ground for great leaders. In a classroom there can be student leaders but the teacher is the primary leader, however in band or choir we teach the students to take charge. The band or choir director is the supreme leader but within the organization we appoint section leaders and/or student government with students who exemplify the characteristics of good leadership, and demonstration of knowledge in the area of study. This type of leadership also promotes social learning. The students who are struggling or do not have a strong work ethic can look to those students. Another aspect of my teaching philosophy is service. Community Service is good for the community and for the individual. Beyond parades, and performances there other things that music organizations can do, things like adopting a highway or going to a local middle school or elementary school to help with their music classes. While working with the classes it will also strengthen their musical ability. This will make the students better performers while

encouraging those students we help to stay and support the arts. The last aspect is the students moral development. The music classroom allows the students to see where they are and where they can improve. The family-oriented environment and social learning atmosphere will help students learn from each other while being cultivated by the teacher. The students will learn moral thinking skills and decision making. The

incorporation of critical thinking questions, problem solving, and short answer questions will teach them how to put their ideas in writing. Music teaches discipline and drive but with my philosophy I will not just produce great musicians, but also great leaders, citizens, and responsible young adults.