TeachingwithTJ

I graduated University with my Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education and Early Childhood Education. I had placements in daycares and numerous grades within the school board. When I first got hired at my board I was hired on as a Support Staff. I spent just under a year in this position and I can say with whole heart that it changed my outlook on teaching. I am so happy I got to experience this before I started my career as a teacher. I have now been working as an Elementary occasional teacher for the past 4 years and I LOVE IT!

I would say that my teaching style is very personal. As hard as it is to face students as your authentic self sometimes, I find it is the best way for me. I am the same person in a classroom as I am at home with my family (of course with more of a filter.) Being your authentic self in a classroom creates a space where the students can also do the same. Showing who you are, showing that you're not perfect and that sometimes we make mistakes as well, creates a community in your classroom where the students feel safe, accepted and free to be themselves. Self expression is also very important in my classroom as well. I have a background in art and I like to use art in all aspects of learning. Art is a language in which all people speak. Expression, emotion, passion are things that can be brought out and accepted in the world through art.

I am working my 4th year at my school board as an elementary occasional teacher. I balance my work life with my family life, taking care of my 3 year old daughter and my 2 Great Danes. I love learning new things, asking questions and having fun!