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Dr. Allison's Philosophy |
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Dr. Patricia Allison's Philosophy |
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Regarding Students: |
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It is my opinion that high expectations should be set for all students. We must not underestimate the untapped abilities and talents that wait within each child. I am aware that family structure, socio economic status, and experiential background has an influence on a child's readiness to learn. However, these are only stumbling blocks and not roadblocks. Because of the individual and difficult situations of our children, we must find innovative ways to reach each one of them. |
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As children are expected to move to a new school, anxiety can develop. As a child experiences a feeling of fear, anxiety or loss, negative feelings emerge and behaviors are affected. It is, therefore, important for good leadership when such emotions intensify. When developing a new atmosphere for children to become a part of, an administrator must understand the factors of childhood fears and work toward building relationships and ownership for the students. It is my understanding of children which allows me to make good judgements in setting a solid academic program, to enhance student learning as well as an atmosphere of safety. Dennis C. Kinlaw, in his book Coaching For Commitment, states that "Systems do not produce quality; people do." I agree with this statement as an important element in providing a learning atmosphere for children. The relationships built through trust, will far out weigh the general "system" of education. The entire school staff has a responsibility to each child. In the work of Ruby Payne, she states that a "successful relationship occurs when emotional deposits are made to the student, emotional withdrawals are avoided, and students are respected." I believe in a school where all people are respected and supported emotionally as well as academically.
Regarding Teachers:
Children are the product of their own environment, good or bad. We, as their teachers, are part of that environment therefore are responsible for their attitude toward education. Our influence will either build their confidence and entice them to want more, or will provide unhappy memories and train them to have a defeatist attitude.
Teachers are the most important role model, next to parents, that a child will ever have. Therefore, those who show love will receive love. Those who demonstrate respect will earn respect. Those who provide opportunity for success will receive satisfaction.
Teachers should be listeners and flexible enough to admit when they are wrong. All of us need to show our human frailties and model the positives that life has to offer. We cannot be afraid to make a mistake and should be brave enough to ask for forgiveness when it is needed; from our students, their parents, other staff members, and even be willing to forgive ourselves.
Communication between the student's home and school will always be expected. I have always believed that teachers should keep parents informed and report the good things as well as the concerns. |
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Regarding Administration: |
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It is the job of administrators to make sure each child receives the best possible education and ensure the learning community provides the best teachers available and the safest learning environment possible. Safety includes a place a student is free to express opinions without a fear of reprimand and reprocussion when the student's thoughts may not always be in agreement with the status quo. Freedom to be an individual is important if students are free to take risks.
All staff members deserve useful evaluation information given to them in a positive and productive format. A desire to tear down an educator is not appropriate for continued growth. Finding the good and building upon it develops trusting relationships and mutual respect. Teachers should be expected to do their best and and then be honored by the administrator through giving them the best in support and understanding. |
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Regarding the Community: |
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Our community is varied and unpredictable at best. It will be necessary to learn to know the how the community relates, whether virtual or on ground, and leaders are reponsible to know the make up of the community and those to are a part of it. Community is more than the people who live within its boundaries but rather a group of individuals who relate to each other in some significant way. Culture, values, and beliefs guide the community of learners to understand each other finding a means to appreciate and respect each other. |
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