My philosophy of education can be easily summed up with the ancient proverb, "Give a man a fish, he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish and he eats for a lifetime." I feel that education and learning are the foundation for life. A person must continually learn and progress in order to keep both his mind and body active. I believe that education must be about all subjects, both the classical and modern. Education should be fun as well as structured. Students must understand that there is a time and a place for everything. They must also see that learning applies to all areas of life. Not only do students need to learn basic fundamentals, such as math and reading, but they also need to learn social skills. It is important for students to learn how to interact with their peers, how to do oral presentations, and constructively express opinions and ideas. A classroom should be a place of enlightenment. Students must feel free to ask questions and present ideas. However, there must be structure in this environment. Students must be taught the proper times to question and challenge.

The students should be taught the rules and guidelines of the class. Such rules should include knowing the proper time to talk, and how to receive permission to do so. The students should learn the proper way to interact with each other as well as to the professor or teacher. They must also be aware of the school’s policies and procedures, and be required to follow them as well. Failure to follow rules and guidelines should result in an immediate consequence. Unless the school rules specify differently, on the first offense the student should be given a verbal reprimand. On the second offense the student should be given a formal written reprimand. The next offense should result in parental contact. The last offense should result in an office referral.

Students should be given challenges, assessments, and opportunities to succeed. Challenges should include class assignments, as well as homework assignments that will give them the opportunity to apply what has been learned. Some of the more unique assignments might include creating a Spanish news broadcast, watching a movie in Spanish, or eating at a Spanish restaurant. Assessments should be given to find out what knowledge has been retained. Quizzes and tests should vary in structure to provide diversity and variety. Some tests should include verbal participation, multiple choice, and some short answer. This gives opportunity for the diversity of learning styles possessed by students. Every student should be given an opportunity to succeed. Extra credit assignments could be given to pull up any failed test or quiz grade. These assignments should be challenging, but rewarding. Such assignments may include reading newspaper articles in Spanish and writing a summary.

Students should be provided cultural experiences as well. For instance, they should be introduced to the Spanish culture and heritage. They should be taught some information on all Spanish countries as well as their history. There should be classroom discussions on diversity that leads to a better understanding of the differences. Students should have an opportunity to experience and participate in such cultural things as food, music, and the arts.

My goal is to see that all students learn, progress, and are challenged. Change is the ultimate goal of education. Students must undergo a permanent change for the better. After being a student in my class I hope that students will see the world differently. I will strive to see that students understand the beauty of the Spanish language and culture. It is also my goal is that all students grow socially, learn to their potential, and feel that they have been successful.