Welcome to my blog! I’m not sure what this blog has in store for me/us, but my goals are twofold: one, to be able to reach out, discuss and collaborate with educators. There is so much to learn about teaching. I am a huge believer in improving yourself as a teacher by reading about best practice. However, there is something to be said about the value of learning from other teachers. In fact, research shows, that’s one of the most effective ways to improve student achievement. My second goal is to be able to do something I value (writing) and thus be able to explore my strengths and weaknesses.
So, why the name “Breaking Education Barriers?” I was first exposed to this phrase when I was interviewing a superintendent from Higginsville Missouri. I worked at the local newspaper while obtaining my bachelors. Higginsville is the typical small-town America venue where much local news relates to the school district. While interviewing the superintendent (who later became a valued mentor to me) he expressed what he thought his biggest role was: breaking the barriers to education for children. This phrase stuck with me. Teaching is not simply inputting knowledge into the minds of children. If it were, education our children would be much easier. As educators, we have to find the barrier of learning of each and every child. These barriers might include home life, learning disorders, emotional disorders, self-esteem issues, etc. This is what makes teaching so hard. Can anyone teach? Sure. But, does everyone have the skills, knowledge and know how to break down every child’s barrier to learning. No, that’s a special talent that many outside of the world of education doesn’t realize exists. I am hoping that this blog can help break down barriers to the education of children.
Comments on: "About" (1)
I really like what you have written about teaching and effective teaching. I’m not an educator but am very interested in the process of education and how education can be improved in our nation’s public school systems. Unfortunately, there are so many roadblocks to change such as those you have suggested which would improve education and help teachers become more effective and engaging educators.