Philosophy of Education

All children have the right to learn. Creating a place where learning
can take place requires educators to utilize effective communication,
classroom management, parental involvement, academic rigor, high
expectations for all, acceptance of change, and accountability.

Learning requires a safe and welcoming environment. Structure and

assertive discipline are the foundation for a positive learning environment.
School discipline must be fair, consistent, and firm. Students must
understand their role in school and the academic and behavioral expectations
placed upon them. I believe that when students and parents clearly
understand expectations and accountability, they become more actively
engaged in their own learning.

Communication is essential to creating an environment where students

can learn. Open communication must be established and valued by all
members of the educational community. Open communication between
students, teachers, administrators, parents, and the community creates an
environment of shared understanding and responsibility in the development
of a lifelong learner and productive citizen. It assures that all voices are
heard, valued and focused toward the improvement of effective educational
practices.

Strong relationships between schools, families, and the community are

essential to the academic success of all students. Education is a shared
responsibility between schools, families, and the community, with the best
results coming when all three work together. I believe the three most critical
dynamics of school improvement are teaching and learning, school climate,
and family involvement. The greatest indicator of student success is the
level of family involvement in education. Therefore, schools must take the
initiative in developing and sustaining effective relationships. This
relationship is necessary for all students to succeed.

Change in education must be systemic, sustainable and effective as

measured by increased learning for all students and adults. I believe that for
sustainable, effective change to become imbedded in our practice, school
leaders must develop a vision that values and utilizes shared leadership. We
need to involve all teachers, administrators, parents, and the community in
the change process. Finding new solutions to new problems requires a
shared vision and a deeper level of active engagement. Teachers need to feel
valued as part of the solution to the problem, more than merely an agent of
change. If our goal is to improve student achievement, then teachers, staff,
parents, and the community must share the problem and solution with the
understanding that they are accountable to its success. They must be
committed to the shared vision for change.

The education of our students requires educators to synthesize many

components. When we unify our efforts around a strong vision, sound
educational practices, professionalism, and an environment of collaboration,
we create an environment for meaningful learning. This positive learning
environment embraces the concept that schools are for students and
achievement.