I knew I wanted to be a teacher when...

I holdfast to the belief that tragedy can inspire and provide guidance to those who crave it. I knew I wanted to be a teacher when Ms. McGuire died. Ms. McGuire was the high school art teacher at my old Catholic high school, St. Albert. Even though I transferred schools in sixth grade, she still remained one of my mentors. I met her in our private painting class that took place on Saturday’s. Her work inspired me. The day of her funeral, I arrived at St. Albert gymnasium to see over 5,000 people had gathered. I wasn’t surprised that she had touched this many lives, she was an incredible woman, but I was surprised that her impact on their lives was so great that people flew in from around the country to attend her funeral.  This small Catholic community, in its entirety, was in mourning and there wasn’t a dry eye in the building. Grown men sobbed and held on to their wives at the passing of this incredible teacher.  During the funeral, her name was used in a way that is only reserved for legends or heroes. I knew then that when I was laid to rest, I wanted to join Ms. McGuire in the company of heroic, legendary teachers that have impacted thousands. She had reached that status of immortality.  She was not just an artist, she was a teacher, a guide, a mentor, and a friend.  I knew then that I wanted to touch hearts and minds of the youth the same way that she did. 

Teaching Narrative:

The first thing to do when crafting an environment conductive to teaching and learning is to establish a sense of community within the classroom. The foundation for a healthy classroom community can be established through mutual trust and respect between all members of the classroom. It is invaluable that the students feel a strong sense of comfort and safety from physical and emotional abuse within my classroom. My classroom is to be a place where ideas and thoughts will be cultivated and encouraged, not be ridiculed by any member of the classroom.