Philosophy of Teaching: Amy Jo Mason, written in 2001
I embrace teaching as an opportunity to uplift, encourage and guide
young individuals through their educational journey. My goal is to
effectively and affectively promote each student's social, emotional and
intellectual well-being by challenging them, supporting their personal
views, tailoring lesson plans to individual needs and by maintaining a
competent and caring manner as a professional teacher. I will strive to
provide leadership and compassion to my students and structure in my
classroom. I believe if a classroom is filled with respect, tolerance,
enthusiasm and acceptance that the learning journey becomes easier and more
attractive. I will dedicate my career as a teacher to helping each child
find his or her interests, goals and passions and then guide them to
fulfilling their dreams. Moreover, I will simultaneously help them prepare
to be competent, independent and successful citizens.
My passion lies in creating art and I hope to unleash the same passion
in my students regardless of their particular interests and motivations.
Art making can be an excellent way to learn more about one's self, nature
and society. Art making can also be challenging, yet rewarding and renewing
for the spirit. I hope to intertwine art projects around other areas such
as math, science, writing, history, etc. As an artist, I've developed into
a more intuitive and sensitive person by simply brushing my colorful
feelings, emotions and personal values onto a blank canvas. Creating art
helps you to truly "see" the world--the details we sometimes forget exist,
the emotions that each of us have that sometimes go unnoticed or
misunderstood. Thus, I will pursue my teaching career with the utmost
enthusiasm and I will respect and motivate each child that I meet.
