Introduction
Ever since I was a young girl, a teacher is the only profession I could see myself occupying. Now, I am twenty-four years old and have recently completed my undergraduate experience at Benedictine University. I have attained my Bachelors of Arts Degree in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Social Science. I chose Social Science as my emphasis because I have a passion for understanding and psychology makes up for part of the Social Science requirement. I enjoy learning about how others gain and remember information and how the brain works. My main goal as an educator is to lead a classroom in which students with IEPs are included and treated as a regular education student.
I was taught the importance of education by my parents and other strong role-models in my life at a young age. My parents worked hard to provide me with the best possible education and always expected me to be responsible and try my best. I encountered many teachers throughout my life who have inspired me to reach my goals and to become a life-long learner. I realize now that all of these people in my life helped in some way to shape me into the teacher I have become. And just as they have positively influenced me, I aspire to leave a positive influence on every one of my students.
I set many goals in life and strive to meet each one. I have fulfilled my goal to complete my Bachelors Degree and plan to continue my education in the future. I believe my dedication, communication, compassion, and organization define me as a person. These skills allow me to work collaboratively with coworkers, students, parents and the community. This professional portfolio is a testimony of the challenges I faced, the lessons I learned, and the goals I conquered as an undergraduate in the teacher education program at Benedictine University. The artifacts included provide a glimpse of my teaching abilities and strengths in the classroom. But ultimately, the purpose of this portfolio is to show my efforts to positively influence all of my students while following the Illinois Professional Teaching Standards.