[tmiller110]

Sorry it took me so long, but here goes...

1. What grade do you teach?
I teach 9-12

2. Why did you decide to teach?
I really wanted to help our youth get a good start in life...I know that teachers are the people who have the greatest impact on a child's life and I felt that I would and could be a positive role model. I wanted to be there to encourage and support our youth.

3. When did you start teaching?
In 2000.

4. Where do you currently teach?
Mayo Magnet High School for Math, Science and Technology

5. What is your educational background?
B.S. in Information Sytems

6. What is your philosophy of Education?
It is my belief that the purpose of education is to provide a caring, nuturing, and safe enviroment where students can develop academically, socially and morally. The curriculum should accommodate for differences in learning styles and cultures by fostering student centered learning that encourages cooperative interactions with faculty, staff, peers, parents, and local and neighboring communities. The curriculum should also provide challenging and developmentally appropriate programs that promote self-expressiona nd creativity.

7. What was the most rewarding experience for you?
We I was honored as first year teacher of the year.

8. What was the least rewarding experience?
When I had a parent challenge a project that I had assigned.

9. What is your "teaching style"?
Becuase students learn differently, I try to incorporate a little of them all.

10. Have you ever experienced teacher burnout?
Not Yet.

11. What is your opinion on mainstreaming and special education in general?
I believe that we should mainstream those students that show the most potential...becuase every student should be given the opportunity to grow....a lot of time students with behavioral problems are placed in special ed...the placing of these students in special ed actually stops their growth.

12. How do you feel about teacher pay?
We are not paid enough for what we have to endure...we are considered professionals, but are not paid as one.

13. Opinion on year round schools?
I do not welcome year round schools.

14. Opinion on Alternative Schools?
I think they are benefical if they are not abused.

15. What are your styles of classroom management?
I am very hands on. I am also authoratative (sp)....I try to make my students feel comfortable and yet respectful.

16. Any feelings on corporal punishment?
I do believe in corporal punishment.

17. Opinions on health screening done in schools?
N/A

18. Have you had any HIV/AIDS, abused, neglected, homeless students- how did you handle the subject/issue?
N/A

19. Any advice for a beginning teacher?
Read "The first days of school" by Harry Wong, it really works. Also make sure you have lessons that are engaging...do projects and diversify your assessments...don't use test as your main basis of wheather and student has grasped a concept...use projects and labs...they work just as well. Also, be organized...your kids will respect a teacher who is organized.

20. What type of questions did the interviewer ask during the interview process for your teaching job?
a. What was your motivation for going into education?
b. What type of classroom management would you apply in this situation (they gave a scinerio).
c. Do you believe in tests as the greatest assessment method.

21. Did they ask for examples of lesson plans, portfolio, or reference letters?
No.

Thanks alot for all of those who attempt to try.
Kay