NAME:
Mrs. Betsy Snow
SCHOOL:
Eden Gardens Fundamental Magnet School
CLASS:
Second -Third Grade Gateway (Gifted)
SCHOOL PHONE:
(318) 861-7654
I often am asked, "When exactly did you know you wanted to be a teacher? Why
did you choose the teaching profession?" These are interesting questions
because I cannot remember a time when I DIDN'T want to be an educator- even as
a young child! "I believe I was born to teach!" is usually my reply. Seeing
my students blossom each year intellectually, socially, and emotionally is
truly a life-changing experience. While sometimes difficult and exhausting,
my motivation to continue comes from the look on a student's face that says
"I've got it!" or the bright smiles and heartfelt hugs always readily
available. The gift of a child's small note of appreciation- "Mrs. Snow has a
big brain, but she has an even bigger heart." (Jack)- is worth more than gold.
There is no greater reward than knowing I have made a difference in a child's
life.
I received a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Louisiana Tech
University in 1985 and a Master's Degree in Elementary Education from
Centenary College in 1988. I have taught in Caddo and Jeff Davis
parishes for a total of fifteen years- eleven at the first grade level and
four years with gifted students in grades Kindergarten through third. I have
also been involved with students at the college level as a guest lecturer at
McNeese State University. It was with great pleasure and enthusiasm that I
was able to return to both the teaching profession and to the Shreveport area
five years ago.
I have recently completed coursework to gain certification in the area of
"academically gifted" and look forward to my fifth year of teaching
language arts to Gateway students. My goals are to motivate my students to
become lifelong learners, to develop a passion for reading and writing, to
incorporate use of technology in the classroom, to encourage critical thinking
and problem solving skills, and to create a classroom atmosphere of
acceptance, cooperation, and excitement through differentiation and
interest-based learning activities.
EVERY CHILD IS A STAR WITH UNIQUE GIFTS AND TALENTS. IT IS MY JOB TO SEE
THAT HE OR SHE SHINES!
While I have always held the belief that all students are capable of
learning in unique ways when given the proper environment, I have realized
through my years of teaching (and parenting) an even more significant truth-
that social and emotional wellness is a key predictor of academic success.
While many argue that emotional support is the job of families and academics
the job of schools, there is a connection between the two. As a teacher, I
feel it is my responsibility to nurture the social and emotional well being
of my students as well as to teach academics.
Most students cannot focus on learning until their social and emotional needs
are addressed. Creating a safe, caring environment where students can feel
that their differences are celebrated and that they are accepted is
essential. This type of climate supports children taking risks as well as
feeling safe and positive about school experiences. This,in turn, inspires
the motivation to learn, problem solve, and create.
It is my challenge to create a comfortable, nurturing, safe, and engaging
classroom setting for my students. As an educator, it is vital to be both a
teacher of the mind as well of the heart.
