Sharon Mattoon
I am a: Kindergarten Teacher, Solley Elementary School | 2016 Teacher of the Year Finalist
My philosophy of teaching is grounded in the opinion that my first task as a teacher is to develop a love of learning. Every moment of the school day can, and should, be an exciting, and intentional discovery of new experiences and knowledge. I believe every child deserves a quality education that provides developmentally appropriate, differentiated instruction that influences him/her to achieve his/her highest capabilities. As a teacher, I take a diagnostic approach in discovering the strengths and weaknesses of every student to best meet his/her needs. Every child is capable of success. My role as an educator is to be passionate, positive, respectful, patient, kind, and nurturing to every child and every family, from every social, cultural, and economic background.
My classroom values and embraces diversity, as diversity brings varied perspectives and insight. I strive to create a safe, environment where children are free to express themselves and divergent thinking is encouraged, while maintaining a high degree of self-worth for every child. I am committed to appreciating every child in my classroom. I form close personal connections with the children, their families, and their communities. My teaching approach encourages creativity, cultivates independence, and develops an intrinsic sense of wonder [in my students] about themselves, their community and the world around us. I am sensitive to meet the needs of children with all conditions, interests, talents, and learning styles.
Through the use of a print rich environment, music and American Sign Language, I appreciate and engage all forms of learning by purposefully incorporating visual, auditory and movement into every lesson. Utilizing multiple modalities is not only engaging but also fosters more thorough understanding of concepts.
