1. “Personal Educational Philosophy”
The challenges of a contemporary school administrator I recognize as being vast and difficult on
many levels. One of the most important and crucial responsibilities being to find just the right teachers for
your individual school and unique culture of students. Filling a new position or replacing a well respected
teacher with many years of success within the school are neither an easy task. My own secondary
educational experience is what has led me to being an educator in my own life. I was always encouraged to
be proactive in my classes and to participate in the activities of my particular schools. Mediocrity was
unacceptable! I believe this level of expectation fosters within students a sense of personal responsibility
for their environment and educational experience. But, even more importantly being introduced to a world
outside of the school microcosm is mandatory! I believe strongly that is the most “teachable” moment.
The time in which a student recognizes their future role in a greater world outside of the school room
walls. That realization inspires hope not only for the strong and motivated student, but even more
importantly to those that may encounter both academic and personal challenges. I have witnessed that
awakening moment turn corners for students in my own academic experience, as well as with my own
children. Four in all, each with greatly different personalities, academic needs, and levels of achievement
all made their ways around that very corner. Proudly all are now attending college. As I had previously
experienced, being made aware of a world outside of their own and beyond their current school identities
awakened a desire to learn and become engaged not always previously present. The excitement, passions,
and possibilities of this world is I feel our responsibility as educators to bring to our students and will be
my overall focus within my classroom. My own experiences coupled with the outstanding education I have
received from the faculty at The University of Richmond, I know without doubt would make me a strong
and lastingly committed asset to your school community and faculty. All that being said, I hope that
making a decision concerning which professional teacher to join your team for the upcoming
academic year has just become a little less of a challenge.