Presence

Being present as a teacher means I am open ideas, opinions and topics. I listen and gather information about things before I make up my own view. In order to be a present learner or teacher I need to see struggles and difficulties as an opportunity to do something about them. Instead of dwelling or complaining about a problem I find ways to fix it. I try new things and own up to my mistakes.

I feel presence is apparent in my teaching everyday. Students are welcomed to share their ideas in our classroom on how things should work. We do a lot of group work and collaboration for problem solving and we encourage different ways of solving problems. I am always adapting my lessons and activities based on what my students need and although I like structure, I am flexible with in allowing activities to take their own shape. We do a lot of reflection in our room about the positives of our lessons or behavior. Students are expected to reflect on their own learning and participation.