As I begin my rewarding teaching career, I sit down and think about my goals and priorities in the classroom. I am excited to commit to a future career where I can implement my own beliefs and shape the future into something extremely positive. I believe the most important aspects I want to provide to my students are threefold: I want to educate, motivate and inspire. In order to have a productive learning environment in which I can educate my students, many different factors must take into account. Above all, it is important for me to master exceptional classroom management skills. Effective and efficient learning occurs when classroom expectations are consistent and clear. Additionally, classroom discipline will be proactive and understood by all students from day one. Being proactive is extremely important for me and my students to have a productive day in a happy and healthy classroom setting. I will always provide an environment in which students feel safe, which will then enable them to increase their learning to its fullest potential. Being proactive means being prepared and in control, always being ready to take the next step and resolve a problem before it arises. If the rules are enforced well, the classroom will benefit from a predictable environment, fewer disruptions and will encourage students to exercise self-control and make positive choices. Next, in order to educate effectively, I believe in the need to create a sense of community in the classroom. If a well-established community is created, students will be able to maintain positive relationships with each other and with myself. I want my students to look forward to entering the classroom and feel as comfortable as possible in their own workplace and learn from other teachers and their philosophies. I have already grown and learned a lot during my time at Penn State University, as well as during my observations, but I am very eager and willing to continue my education. I believe that once I graduate, I will continue to educate myself in order to always remain as balanced as necessary when entering a classroom. My philosophy will constantly change as new ideas and techniques are introduced to me. Ultimately, I think it's very important to have a positive impact on children. I will strive to do everything I can for my students and try to make their time with me as wonderful as possible. As I enter the wonderful field of teaching, I will constantly remind myself of this quote: "They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel." » -Carol Buchner