Proofread Please - Christian Education Philosophy

I wrote this essay in response to the following sentence: Summarize your personal philosophy of education and expand upon how it would compliment the mission of our school. I am applying to a Christian school so the response is God-based. If this offends you please don't waste your time or mine. I greatly appreciate your help!



Educational Philosophy

I knew that God was calling me to the education field as early as fourth grade. Teaching seemed so fun! As a student I noticed how my favorite teachers made the classroom an enjoyable environment through creative lesson planning. I was also fascinated with the impact teachers make in the lives of numerous people. I wanted the opportunity to help and to serve others in the same way. I believe God specifically designed me to be an educator for Him. I am so grateful that, with six years of Christian education experience, God truly has given me the desires of my heart.

Teaching is so much more than just imparting knowledge. It is essential that students learn numerous life skills from the classroom environment that are not just subject-based, such as: critical thinking skills, problem solving proficiency, passion for learning, and most importantly, a love for our God. It is imperative that educators teach principles that students can build upon and make use of throughout their lives.

In my classroom I strive to be a well-balanced teacher. Through my actions I am able to convey that I am invested into my student’s lives and want them to enjoy learning as much as I want them to learn. When creating lesson plans I make every effort to use a variety of learning styles to relate to every student. I feel the most effective teaching is teaching that relates to all learners. The atmosphere in my classroom is upbeat, hands-on, consistent, secure, and God-centered. I strive for the children in my classroom to sense that they not only belong, but that they also have ownership.

The most successful level of learning occurs when the student wants to learn and is challenged and motivated to do so. The teacher sets the tone for the classroom which effects the student’s desire to learn. The child needs to know that the teacher always has faith in him/her and holds the child in high regard. When mutual respect is the norm in the classroom, it is an effective learning atmosphere. This creates a climate of peace, fairness, and therefore a tremendous learning environment. I also believe that learning by doing is important to success, including trial and error, practice, and learning from mistakes. It is important for a child to be able to apply the principles learned in the classroom, both spiritually and academically, through participating in activities so that they can utilize the knowledge outside the learning environment.

I believe my teaching style, biblically-based beliefs, and educational phiolosphy would compliment the three priorities of LCS. Most importantly, my classroom is God-centered. I have experience in, and understand the importance of partnering with parents who want to equip their children to influence the world for Christ through using good communication, mutual respect, and skillful conflict resolution. Secondly, I strive to create an excellent learning environment that motivates students to attain academic excellence. Lastly, I understand the importance of encouraging students to fulfill their potential through the talents and skills God has placed in them through extracurricular activities.