For the past four years I have been teaching in Cairo, Egypt.  It has been an incredible experience, where I have grown both personally and professionally.  My perceptions of life and education have evolved in unexpected ways, and my practice as a teacher has become more focused and effective.

As an educator, I recognize the necessity of giving our students the skills and knowledge base they need to be successful in a world that is rapidly changing.  I emphasize process over product and at every opportunity attempt to bridge topics of inquiry with their immediate world.  I strive to bring students into the awareness of why they are doing what they are doing, in hopes that they will recognize some of the paths to their own learning success.  Quite obviously, these goals are only met if the classroom is a place where each student feels respected and cared for.  My students experience just that, and as a result achieve the high quality of learning I have just described.

Some of the ways that I merge topics of inquiry with the surrounding world include field trips, vertical teaming with other classes, bringing in guest speakers, and getting the students involved in events that serve the larger community.  One such event was the Reading for Charity program that I initiated with a Grade 6 class here in Cairo.  With my assistance, the students fundraised, planned and facilitated a field trip and lunch for over 100 Sudanese refugee children.  My goal was to have each student recognize his/her potential for evoking change.  That realization was an exciting one for my students, and it was evident on each of their faces at the end of that school day.

Throughout my 5 years of teaching, I have worked at both the elementary and middle school levels.  All of these experiences took place within the context of team planning and collaborative instruction.  It is this type of teaching that excites me most, as the potential of what can be accomplished is always great.  My open mind and exceptional means for communication make me a strong team player.

I am a very visible individual within the larger school community.  I have shown both a willingness and aptitude for leadership in various capacities.  Most recently, that has included my appointed role as co-chair of our school’s Literacy Committee, and the organization and facilitation of an after school sports program for elementary students.  I have presented workshops, and actively worked to provide a supportive and dynamic staff environment by serving on staff support, parent teacher advisory and faculty advisory committees.  I seek to create connections with students, staff and parents, so that “school” becomes synonymous with community.

If you are seeking a teacher who seeks to grow as an educator, and who is strong in character, then please consider what I have to offer.  I bring enthusiasm, flexibility and a positive attitude to all that I do.  I look forward to new challenges and opportunities with great anticipation and excitement.  Thank you for considering my application.