“Pay it forward” is an idea popularized by a recent movie of the same title.  This philosophy is based on the idea that when someone does something for you, you should do something for someone else.  This is also my teaching philosophy.  Because so many teachers helped me to succeed, I feel that it is my duty to help as many kids as possible in the same ways.  To me, this means being more than an instructor or a baby-sitter.  The word “teacher” means someone who helps you become the kind of person you want to be.  I want to be the person who opens doors for children and leads them to paths they’ve never even thought of before.  I believe that I am so much more than someone who presents the curriculum.  I strive to change the lives of the students in my class.
    I believe that there is something that I can do for every child in my classroom.  I think that every child needs something different.  I know that some children in my class will need the love and attention that they do not get at home.  I plan to listen to them and be there to support them.   I want to show them the respect they deserve and celebrate who they are.  I also hope that by modeling this compassion I will encourage everyone in my class to be empathetic.  Other kids will need someone to guide them toward self-control and responsibility.  I expect students to take responsibility for themselves, and I plan to help them along the way.  I want to be a teacher who doesn’t just yell and punish.  I want to give my students the opportunity to become adults.  Some students will need my help in developing socially.  I will encourage students to work together and be a part of a community because I believe that this is a key component of our society.  I am sure that I will have other students that will need my help academically.  I want to provide every opportunity for my students to grow academically whether they are outstanding students or struggling students.  I want to challenge those students who are gifted and encourage those students who need help.
    I think that the most important thing that I can do to “pay it forward” is to always keep the children’s best interest in mind.  Their well-being and growth is key to their success.  I don’t think that the measurement of a good teacher is how quiet his or her class is or how well his or her kids do on the EOG’s.  I believe that success is measured in the happiness, healthiness, and progress the children make in all areas.  I believe in the holistic education of children.  It is my responsibility to give each child the most opportunities possible to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.