Hello and welcome to my portfolio!  My name is Heather Garcia and I am currently a graduate student at SUNY Oswego.  I am entering my final year and cannot be more excited about completing the Initial Childhood Education program.  In Spring 2007, I received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from SUNY Oswego.  Through, my internship, the Oswego Children’s Project, in the Fall 2006 to the Spring 2007, I introduced play therapy to children in grades K-3.  After this wonderful experience, I decided that teaching elementary school is the my path to the future.  I am looking forward to becoming a future educator who not only wants to teach the primary grades, preferably math, but is excited to help children strive to their full potential as students in hopes of their goals and dreams.

My Teaching Philosophy 

I believe that every student is capable of reaching their full potential and it is my job to have them accomplish this goal.  Teaching evolves with expanding reading of texts, with continuing experience in the classroom, and with growing awareness of the work of other disciplines.  I believe in the value and power of language, that teachers and students must be part of the constantly changing technological world, that teaching and learning involve reflection and action, and believe in connecting students’ learning to something they know or value. 

Purpose

The purpose of this portfolio is to assist in the job application process.  I plan on showing this to future employers to showcase not only my work but also my personal reflection and opinions on the various national teaching standards.