Building Reading...Matthew (Matt) Key, Georgia

Reading is a skill that all students must continually practice. Reading does not only take practice, but it also takes quality instruction in order for students to become successful at it. This practice and instruction serves a number of purposes. It gives students opportunities to apply and use the skills learned and taught. During this practice is where weaknesses are noticed and appropriate guidance and programs can be used to strengthen their skills. The programs used help the students build their weaknesses and draws them into a world of reading in which they can learn and enjoy books. When children learn to read, they have the key that opens door to all the knowledge in the world (U.S. Department of Education, Sept. 2008). Unlocking these doors to knowledge is what teachers need to do to figure out how to instill the love of reading for pleasure in elementary school students.

Research will show how hard it is to instill the love of reading in elementary school. Students are fidgeting and have a hard time staying focused to complete a reading assignment. Students think that reading is boring and the material does not interest them. Because students have this lack of interest and feel that reading is boring they cannot gain the love of reading that they need in order for that enjoyment to be instilled. Reading should start to become more enjoyable and something that students actually look forward to. Once the students become more motivated, their comprehension should improve over time.

Matthew (Matt) Key, Georgia

Education Philosophy...Matthew (Matt) Key, Georgia

Helping students to develop a deep level of respect for themselves, others, and their environment, occurs through an open sharing of ideas and a judicious approach to discipline. Creating this type of environment is important takes time, but creating this type of environment is important. Meetings with various constituents are one way to encourage dialogue. I believe everyone will end up having greater respect for each other, and the curriculum, when they are sure of what is expected of them. Establishing consistent rules in the beginning and discussing the importance of all activities respect is given to student’s time.  As a result, they learn to respect the ideas and values of all those involved.

Teaching has always provided an opportunity for continual learning and growth.  Coming from a long line of educators has given me valuable insight and a passion for constant growth.  This passion lends itself to the willingness to do what it takes in educating children. As a fifth grade teacher, my hope has always been to ignite a spark within my students and share my passion with them.  Being able to show compassion, strength, and dedication is what is needed when working with children.  It is vital for students to have someone that will push them to challenge the status quo, but at the same time be aware of their needs.  I feel that I fit this description and will always strive to be the best educator that I can be for the children that I have the privilege to teach.

Matthew (Matt) Key, Georgia

Thinking as a Principal...Matthew (Matt) Key, Georgia

As an administrator, I would need to make sure that I establish and environment that balances the necessity for change with an atmosphere that supports change.  I would need to do the same for the teachers that they are doing for their students.  Providing opportunities for professional growth in regards to differentiation is crucial.  I need to develop a sense of community within the school among colleagues.  Teachers can gain a great deal of information by observing teachers that practice differentiation.  Teachers need to feel comfortable being able to share best practices and assess what would work best in their respective classrooms.  Respecting my staff and positively building on their differences would be a good example to set for the teachers to model to with their students.  I need to encourage teachers to take risks in trying new ways of instruction.  By constantly figuring out what works best is what makes good teachers excellent teachers. 

Some of the pitfalls that I see in this situation are that some of the teachers using archaic methods would not want to change because they do not think that change is needed.  This boils down to the old saying….If it is not broke, don’t fix it.  Many times teachers, as well as administrators, are skeptical about the newest latest change.  Also, I could see that some teachers would be reluctant to change because they do not feel supported in making a change.  As principal I would need to encourage risks and promote personal growth among the staff.  Personal growth ultimately transfers over to the students.  The best way to model this professional growth in teachers is to model professional growth by taking risks in finding creative solutions to problems.

Matthew (Matt) Key, Georgia