I aspire to mentor and coach teachers through facilitation methods vs. a “spoon-fed” philosophy. That is, as new knowledge is introduced, I encourage educators to expand upon thoughts, question any antiquated thinking, and come to new conclusions about how theory becomes best practice in a real classroom.

In my principal and NISD Administrator’s Academy years ago we went through the Franklin-Covey modules of Coaching and Leadership, which truly changed my life and the way I participated in my own career. I realized that I had previously used a “spoon-fed” type approach to support both teachers and students. As a special educator-turned- administrator, I wanted to jump in and “fix” situations as a support for my staff vs. coaching them through problem-solving situations.

I wasn’t asking them the right questions to help themselves. I changed my whole philosophy years ago to 1) ask thought-provoking, coaching questions that lead to higher-level thinking, and 2) trust them and affirm their actions.

In working with students, my philosophy always has and always will be to see that differentiated instruction is not limited to academics but encompasses behavioral and social-emotional learning as well. It may be an over-used term, but I am a firm believer that students should “Maslow” before they can “Bloom”, and if basic needs, respect, and emotional needs of children are met then learning is better acquired and retained.

I believe any student can receive accommodations, that any student can benefit from social-emotional learning, and that every student is limitless in what they can accomplish.