Philosophy of education

"I am not just a music teacher, I am a teacher of young and inspiring individuals, through music"

Music Education is a process by which students develop knowledge, physical coordination, physical activity, and other pertinent lifelong skills through the enjoyment of performing music. The objectives to teaching music is to provide students with a fundamental knowledge of musicianship and training that will result in an individual’s interest, curiosity and desire to continue to be a lifelong participant in music as a consumer, concert-goer, or perhaps a professional performer or music educator.

Early in my teaching career I had a discussion with a well known music composer whom was providing a clinic for our students. He asked me a question which struck me as basic, “what are you teaching?” Our conversation went in circles for many minutes, until he said: “you will experience success when you realize that you’re not teaching music, you are teaching people.” The immediate impact of his words altered my life and teaching career. I was professionally at a crossroads in which I am certain has led down the correct pathways. Over time, I have crossed paths with several expert teachers, band directors, professional educators, peers, and administrators that have positively influenced my teaching career and life.

“The Star of Nevada Leadership Camp” for Musicians, introduced me to two Professional Music Educators (Directors of outstanding University Music Programs). From them I learned that students need structure to their learning that is built on fundamentals, and is flexible for students to learn at their own rate of development. “The system” must provide curriculum that is diverse, thorough, and begins with the end result in mind.

The impact of teachers from our International Baccalaureate Program has had a significant impact on my philosophy of education. A colleague continues to raise the level of expectations amongst the IB Teachers and students that is both supportive and challenging. Her reflection of her teaching practices serves as a role model. I have learned to ask the questions: What tools have I given the students to make right choices? What am I doing to be a role model of tolerance and acceptance? What am I doing to inspire students to achieve at greater performance levels? What tools am I giving the students to continue to be life-long learners? Similarly, another colleague demonstrates that to be an effective teacher you must convey passion for your subject, and that it is both practical and healthy to educate with humor and a smile.

The impact of my former and current Principals’ has contributed significantly to my philosophy of education. Grading must be practical, fair, and relative to students’ understanding the standards (of music). Grading should not be: associated with attendance or work habits. Similarly, my current Principal has emphasized “Education for Learning.” The theory reinforces that with performance practice, frequent and formative assessment, and flexible timelines to master knowledge and skills, all students can be successful learners.

My philosophy of education has evolved with my own life experiences and relationships, perhaps none greater than the role of father and husband. The greatest impact of my teaching career has been my observance, discussions, and appreciation of my wife, a science teacher, and mother. Her empathy and ability to reach students who have built walls around themselves is a rare gift. Her ability to encourage me to be a better teacher and father has had a significant impact on my philosophy as an educator. Truly, education begins in the home.

The Great Oak High School Community, including the faculty, staff, my wife, the parent support group, and the students has had a significant impact on my teaching philosophy. I have learned and developed significant communication skills with parents - understanding that their child’s education is a team effort. I have developed a large and strong parent support group that raises the students’ achievements to regional and national venues. Most importantly, the support staff from the Custodial team through the Athletic Director continually support and lift our student musicians. How has this been fostered? My philosophy: give of your time and talent; and you will receive. Input equals output.

The Charlie Schulz Philosophy

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the 'Peanuts' comic strip.

You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just ponder on them.
Just read the e-mail straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.
4 . Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series Winners.

How did you do?

The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday.
These are no second-rate achievers.
They are the best in their fields.
But the applause dies..
Awards tarnish.
Achievements are forgotten.
Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1 List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special!!
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The lesson:
The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials..
The most money..or the most awards.
They simply are the ones who care the most

Pass this on to those people who have either made a difference in your life, or whom you keep close in your heart, like I've Done Here.