My Philosophy of Education
Evelyn Edwards Fenn

≥« I believe that the primary purpose of education is to produce self-reliant, responsible, well rounded, empowered citizens. Education prepares the child for his/her future and place in society. It should instill a life-long love of learning in the child and the capability to face a fast-paced, technologically driven, culturally diverse, global environment. An educated person will be able to think critically and be able to successfully adapt to new situations. They will have a high level of self esteem solidly based on their accomplishments. They will understand the ramifications of living in a global environment and the necessity of caring for others and the environment. Education will prepare them to solve complicated problems, see how factors are interrelated and contribute fully to society.
≥« I believe that the role of teachers is to recognize that each student is a unique individual with different needs, thought processes, learning styles and motivations. The teacher should create a safe, supportive environment conducive to learning that will fully stimulate the social and intellectual development of each child. The teacher, who is the subject matter expert and facilitator of the class, should set high standards and challenge each student to reach his/her potential. He/she should also be a good role model of the values of the community. Creating a flourishing educational environment will allow the student to become a more independent learner, capable of solving problems, reflecting on ideas and critically evaluating varying perspectives.  The students progress to being partners in their education and as such demonstrate self-advocacy, respectful behavior, effective study skills and a thirst for knowledge.
≥« I believe that students learn best through experience. They should be allowed to work on topics that are relevant to their lives and that interest them. They should work in small, collaborative groups, be kept active and fully involved. Working collaboratively on team projects should be encouraged since this experience mimics the type of work done in business and provides the students with an opportunity to teach others which is the best way to learn. Learning is most meaningful when it is exciting, fun, active, and allowed to progress at the pace with which the child is most comfortable.
≥« I believe that the curriculum should include the arts and sciences as well as vocational and self-development topics. An interdisciplinary approach to the curriculum will help students understand the material, realize its usefulness and produce more interesting lessons. I believe that students should be heterogeneously grouped in small classes and that the teacher should loop through two years with their class.
≥« I believe that a range of assessments should be used to evaluate learning. These could include student portfolios, books, projects, experiments, as well as tests and quizzes. Assessments should be used to gauge the level of mastery that the student has reached. Standardized test results provide a useful index of learning but should not be used in a vacuum to evaluate students or to grade schools or teachers. Use in this fashion promotes ¡§teaching to the test¡¨ and restricts problem solving and creativity.
≥« I believe that parents, administrators and community members are all important stakeholders in the education of tomorrow¡˛s citizens. As such they should be able to articulate the community¡˛s values, provide a nurturing environment and give constructive feedback. They should provide the necessary financial support and participate in school activities so they are intimately aware of what goes on in the school.  When there is parental and community involvement, students realize that education is important. A school should provide a welcoming environment for parents.  School counselors, administrators and teachers should be readily available to answer parents¡˛ questions and address concerns.  Children learn best when the school, teachers and parents work together as a team. Above all, every stakeholder should continually demonstrate pride in their school community by their words and actions.