From a young age, I’ve been drawn to the thought of being able to help others understand a concept or idea. I remember when I was younger I would also be playing teacher whenever I had “free time” during school. When I got home from school I would play school every single night. I even had a big whiteboard hung on my wall so I could ” teach” to my invisible kids. Whenever I would help my friends during class growing up I always felt fulfillment in seeing someone else succeed through my guidance. Palmer’s idea of teaching as a vocation that calls on both heart and intellect resonates with me. Teaching, for me, isn’t just about “teaching kids”, it’s about connecting with students on a human level and encouraging them to think critically about the world around them. I bring with me the belief that effective teaching requires a sense of authenticity, a willingness to share myself with others, and a commitment to continuous learning.
I believe my strengths are my ability to make connections, my open-mindedness, and my empathy. I want my students to feel comfortable sharing their thoughts without fear of judgment. This aligns with Palmer’s notion of “authenticity” in the classroom, where teachers are not distant experts but active participants in the learning process. I also have a deep respect for the individual differences students bring to the table, and I try to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels seen and valued. My ability to listen attentively and provide thoughtful feedback is something I see as a strength, as I feel that it helps students feel supported and understood. Additionally, my passion for learning means I’m always looking for ways to improve, whether through professional development or collaborating with colleagues.
However, there are areas where I still need to grow. While I can connect with students one-on-one, I sometimes struggle to create a classroom environment where every voice is equally heard in larger group settings. Balancing participation, ensuring each student’s voice is valued, and managing a classroom dynamic where all students feel comfortable contributing I perceive can be challenging. Additionally, I recognize the importance of staying present in the moment, and not getting too caught up in the logistics of lesson planning or the pressure to cover specific content. Palmer’s emphasis on the role of the teacher as a guide rather than a dictator is something I want to keep at the top of my practice. I aim to improve my ability to create an environment of curiosity and engagement, where students feel that their questions and ideas are just as important as the answers I provide.
