I believe that human beings are on this fine green globe to help one another. I agree with Henry James, who when asked what the three most important things about being a human being were replied, "The first is to be kind, the second is to be kind, and the third? To be kind."

I know that each child is unique. I know that there is no single pedagogical practice that is the be-all an end-all to teaching's effectiveness. A universe of philosophies and styles exists, and a teacher may succeed best by understanding as many of these as possible, and by applying them within the framework of an individual child's learning style and abilities. I believe that high expectations, gently and consistently applied, yield great learning rewards.

I believe that the education of the future may not look much like the education of the present, derived as it is from a model where the teacher is primarily the "expert" conveyor of information. Memorizing the capitals of the states, for example, is a meaningless exercise when that information is just a few browser clicks away. What is needed is a skillset that includes understanding how to find information, understanding the motivations behind any information source, and exercising discretion and carefulness online.

I believe that I am blessed to be able to help nurture the learning lives of children, and I hold that charge in utmost regard.