I believe the role of the educator is to assist students intellectually, emotionally, physically, and socially.  Adolescents are changing and developing in all of these ways and educators need to be aware and prepared to guide students through their learning experiences.

My goal is to always create a positive classroom environment by having trusting relationships with my students.  I will make sure that each individual student comprehends the content being taught, and that I share it in a meaningful, interesting manner.  If a student is concerned or having trouble, I will provide ways to cope with the matter.  I was fortunate enough to have strong, positive role models who were dedicated to helping me grow during my adolescent years.  The teachers who took the time to get to know me, and showed genuine interest in my thoughts and feelings, were the ones who had the greatest impact on me.  I was excited to attend their class, and felt comfortable going to them for extra help.  My objective is to build the same kind of bond and trust with each of my students.

Educators need to be attentive to the new curriculum, and take into account the importance of personalized learning.  Art class is about being creative and bringing original ideas to the table.  I believe it is important to follow curriculum standards and learning outcomes, while letting students have choice on the way they invent and present.  In art this may be through different mediums, styles, or the way they explore.   

I will consider the range of personalities, interests, backgrounds, and learning styles of my students.  I will take these differences into account and tailor to each individual student in order to help achieve their full potential.  It is crucial to incorporate a range of cultural and ethnic arts.  The BC curriculum emphasises Indigenous arts throughout each secondary grade.  I have taken various courses throughout my degree which have focused on Indigenous history on the west coast, both in BC and down to California.  Much of our culture in BC stems from the rich history of Indigenous people, which is why I intend to integrate into my lessons.  I also want to embrace as many world wide cultures as possible, as I should anticipate students from a variety of ethnic backgrounds.

I also want to ensure that gifted learners are challenged, and students with learning disabilities are not left behind. I believe that every student can achieve their potential if they are guided in the best way that accommodates them.  It is important as educators to know and understand different levels of development and know how to adapt lessons to best suit individual learners.