The most important factors that you need to consider prior to teaching are the historical, social and political foundations of education. These play a fundamental role and a foundational knowledge in education and influence teachers’ decisions. As teachers we must know where education has come from and why we teach the way we do now in order to see where education is going.

       The most important thing I want to instill in my students is the love for lifelong learning. By creating a safe environment of compassion and structure, students form supportive and respectful relationships with their peers and teachers. Learning should be never ending. As we encourage our students to learn continuously, we should be doing the same. It is important to keep up with the latest teaching practices, standards and other state and local requirements.

       I believe that a classroom full of sound is a classroom full of learning. Whether the sounds are coming from the students in groups and classroom discussions, or, music playing quietly in the background to help their growing brain focus on the task at hand; music, constructive noise, and collaboration is an important fundamental part of the creative process and helps to formulate great ideas.

       I believe that our colleagues are some of our most valuable resources. It is important to share ideas that have been beneficial in our own classrooms with our colleagues. This could also be a great time to learn from each other and to reflect upon ourselves and the school as a whole. Reflection is an important part of teaching. When you take the time to reflect on yourself and your teaching style, you gain a better understanding of what is and isn’t working for your students.

       Parental involvement is crucial. Studies have shown that parents who are active in the school system are more likely to have students who are involved with their school work and commitments. I would instill this in my classroom by sending home progress reports and calling parents with outstanding positive reports about their child.

       Overall with the knowledge of the historical, social, and political foundations in education will help to improve the decisions I make as a teacher. The beliefs and vision I have for effectively teaching all students and promoting those who enter my classroom will help promote the well-being of my students and their families as well as the community! All these combined will help in my goal of promoting students to be life-long learners.