Vanessa Vasquez

My teaching experience has evolved over the last 14 years, and I am sure it will continue to evolve as I work with students in the coming future. My goals as a teacher are to be a positive leader and motivator, encouraging a desire to learn and grow, and create a foundation for a lifetime of learning.
First, I plan on getting acquainted with my students. Knowing who my students are, where they come from, and how they learn is the foundation on which I will instruct the class. I believe that focusing on individual students will allow them to thrive.
Second, I believe in an honest and firm approach. I do not believe in the “scare” tactic. I want my students to feel comfortable enough with me that they know I will have patience with them if they don’t get it right the first try. Whether that is with school work and/or behavior. I want them to feel motivated to shoot for that target again and again. I will challenge them to set the bar high. Once they accomplish what they set out to do or “hit that mark”, I will encourage them to reach higher.
Furthermore, I want to be a director of learning. I feel a strong desire to challenge students to push past what they already know by facilitating the thinking process. I will require a level of respect, but not intimidation. I want my students to feel comfortable asking me anything, discussing anything, and most importantly I want them to provide feedback.
Finally, I believe in equality for everyone. Not everyone in life gives and receives in the same manner. I am committed to treating all my students equally according to their individual needs. When students can feel the support around them and can see for themselves the amount of potential they have, the sky is the limit.