Poetry with Summer J.

Credentials: I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Individualized Studies from Goddard College. I mostly focused on English, Anthropology, and Performance Arts—exploring areas like: child development and psychology; poetry studies; ethnobotany; gender and sexuality studies; and music theory and performance. I also have an IDELT (International Diploma of English Language Teaching), with an emphasis in Teaching Young Learners, from BridgeTEFL. Currently, I am working toward a certificate in Gifted Education, as well (which might turn into a Master’s degree if/when I can afford it!). Teaching Philosophy: My personal teaching philosophy revolves around student-directed learning and creative expression. I want to help create life-time learners! To do this, we must instill a love of learning and, at the same time, encourage self-confidence and critical thinking in each student. I hope to achieve these things in each of my classes. In my younger classes, we will learn through a lot of fun and play! Songs, puppets, games, drawing, clay-sculpting, and other hands-on activities are some things to expect. In my older classes, we might learn less through play, but still have a lot of fun (and probably a hands-on activity or two)! Most importantly, I try my hardest to make every class a safe, comfortable space for every learner. In class, I encourage everyone to be as interactive as they are comfortable with—there is no “right” or “wrong” way to behave, as long as we are respectful—and try to have fun, of course! Gifted Learners: I strive to make sure each of my classes is appropriate for gifted learners, if not wholly catered towards them. As a former ‘gifted student’ myself, I understand how frustrating it can be when teachers don’t “get” you—and how boring things can be when you’re not challenged. I hope to avoid these pitfalls in my classes. More About Me & My Classes: A few of my favorite things include: the English language (poetry, writing, editing, reading, etc.), music (especially singing, playing guitar, and musical theatre), anthropology, social impact/human rights issues, and creating polymer clay miniatures and other visual art. I’d like to eventually include all of these subjects in what I teach. If you have a specific idea for me, please feel free to request it! I’m always looking for new ideas for classes and new students to meet and learn with.