Jeanne Weber - Philosophy of Education

Passion. Dedication. Balance. Three words that sum up my Educational Philosophy. Though I came to the profession later than many, I have been teaching my whole life. My parents were teachers so you could say that teaching is in my blood. More to the point, I consider it my vocation, my calling. My enthusiasm and spirit are energized when there is an opportunity for me to guide someone to understanding, or to mastery of a skill. There is no greater joy for me than that of witnessing discovery. Each student in my care is deserving of the best I can offer them and each classroom full of students offers me new opportunities to grow in my knowledge, skills, methods and ideals. I am passionate about learning.

It is imperative to support and encourage every student in their efforts to seek knowledge and acquire mastery of skills to the best of their ability. Providing a solid foundation of the subject matter is essential. The importance of fostering opportunities for students to develop the appropriate social and practical skills needed to become engaged members of their communities can not be overstated. Keeping current on the latest developments in education, technology and in the deeper understanding of the diverse populations of students is a priority. Giving students a safe environment in which to explore their world – their physical world, their social world and their internal world is paramount. Exposure to, and exploration of a variety of different peoples, places and things will help them to broaden their world-view and be less afraid of things that are different. I am dedicated to providing an environment that encourages this culture of learning, and to trying as many teaching methods, theories and technologies as is necessary and appropriate to ensure my students have the best opportunity to reach their potential.

Educating the young in any society can be a contentious and complicated task. There is a never-ending attempt to balance the needs and goals of the community with the needs, desires and abilities of the students. As our understanding of disabilities and disorders had deepened, so has our ability to teach those who were once considered un-educatable. The education of all students, including those with disabilities, disorders and those who are considered disadvantaged can never be a one-size-fits-all solution. Incorporating a blending of different methods, ideas and philosophies is necessary. There is merit in exploring more traditional methods, and there is equal merit in investigating newer, innovative methods. I will endeavor to incorporate a balanced approach to learning; to classroom management; to integration of life within, and outside the school; and to my students.

Ultimately, the classroom is a place where learning is as much about information as it is about ideas, connections and relationships. A place to explore social and cultural concepts alongside pertinent factual information. Students must have opportunities to understand more fully the social, cultural, and historical context of the information they are learning, and be able to apply it. It is about fostering a growing openness to what we can learn from each other: the students, staff, parents and others in the greater community. It is not an easy task, but well worth the effort. My students and I will be actively engaged and deeply involved; as we are a community of learners, and together we will grow.