NAME:
Ms. Ritter
SCHOOL:
Pulaski Academy and Central School District
CLASS:
7th Grade English
SCHOOL PHONE:
315-298-5103 mritter@pacs.cnyric.org
My teaching philosophy will be ever changing as I gain experience, however,
some elements will remain constant. For example, I will endeavor to create
opportunities for students to make connections with literature - as well as
other subjects - and their own life experiences. Through my experience as a
student as well as an educator, I have come to better understand the diverse
ways in which individuals process information. Sensitivity to diversity,
or, recognition of the unique paths students travel, can ultimately lead to
the discovery of an individual's passion. I look forward to the challenge of
orienting young people on their own journey towards discovery and self-
actualization.
My reasons for teaching are not purely altruistic. Emerson's words come to
mind from his writing, "Self-Reliance," as he offered what could be
commentary on individualized student insights on literature: "The eye was
placed where one ray should fall, that it might testify of that particular
ray." In a world filled with individuals, there will be no "one" right
answer to any of our chilren's educational needs. We may not be able to
ascertain the perfect solution to every issue in education, but creativity
and flexibility seem key to serving the greatest number, and preparation
appears to be the foundation for all our endeavors. By educating ourselves
in aspects as varied as: understanding our history, gaining cultural
sensitivity, and biological processes (such as cognitive development), we
will prepare ourselves as best we can to uncover each student's original and
unique communication skills. This will aid in the student's development of
critical thinking skills -- in my belief -- the ultimate goal of education.
To prepare all students
for a constantly changing future
by providing the highest quality education
in partnership with
parents, staff and community.