Demonstrating a Professional Body of Knowledge
I understand that teaching involves knowledge of the subjects I teach and I never make statements that cannot be substantiated with academic literature in the field. I believe it is my duty to come to class well prepared and aware of the content and the curriculum. I plan activities and assignments that correspond to various learning styles and aptitudes.
My undergraduate education, specifically my BA in English, Political Science and Education together with my graduate education, my MA and PhD in Political Science, act as a great foundation for my teaching, and they provide me with an in-depth understanding of the curriculum as well as the broader philosophy that inspires the curriculum itself.
I understand that teaching involves knowledge of the subjects I teach and I never make statements that cannot be substantiated with academic literature in the field. I believe it is my duty to come to class well prepared and aware of the content and the curriculum. I plan activities and assignments that correspond to various learning styles and aptitudes.
My undergraduate education, specifically my BA in English, Political Science and Education together with my graduate education, my MA and PhD in Political Science, act as a great foundation for my teaching, and they provide me with an in-depth understanding of the curriculum as well as the broader philosophy that inspires the curriculum itself.
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Establishing Inclusive Learning Environments
I understand the importance of differentiation and the manner in which information can be communicated in multiple ways. I incorporate various ways of conveying information but I never overlook the importance of individual “one on one” communication. I also know that individualized feedback is more valuable than marks or rubrics and I deliver accordingly. 
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Engaging in Career-Long Learning
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The pursuit of knowledge is not career-long it is life long. And though my resume shows an extensive commitment through academic learning in a university environment, I have eclectic interests. Amongst those, I pursue learning about brain science and anxiety, as well as identity formation amongst immigrant Canadians. I am also an avid reader and a critical observer of current events. I also never tire of sharing what I learn with collogues, and especially my students.
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Fostering Effective Relationships
Teaching entails many things but relationships are foundational to all other things. For this reason, I always commit time and attention to each student to ensure that they know that they belong in my class and that I they will be respected. I also run student evaluations regularly and have always received positive feedback from all of my students in this regards.
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Applying Foundational Knowledge about First Nations, Métis and Inuit
I have developed and applied foundational knowledge about First Nations First Nations, Métis and Inuit for the benefit of all students. Moreover, I continue to learn about Indigenous Ways of knowing and to include what I learn in my teachings.
I have also come to understand that Indigenous stories often speak of the world as an integrated whole. I studied Ancient philosophy and I know that Europeans did not always relate to the world through parts and through the lens of the scientific laboratory. And, I also know, that something important can be lost when we reduce the world to parts (Little Bear, 2000; Schissel, 2003). I know, furthermore that the scientific method leads to an efficiency that often lacks ethics. Thus, accounts that understand that “despite outward differences each life form depends upon the others for wholeness and completeness” (Atleo, p. 22) reveal a Weltanschauung that continues to resonate today.
I have also come to understand that Indigenous stories often speak of the world as an integrated whole. I studied Ancient philosophy and I know that Europeans did not always relate to the world through parts and through the lens of the scientific laboratory. And, I also know, that something important can be lost when we reduce the world to parts (Little Bear, 2000; Schissel, 2003). I know, furthermore that the scientific method leads to an efficiency that often lacks ethics. Thus, accounts that understand that “despite outward differences each life form depends upon the others for wholeness and completeness” (Atleo, p. 22) reveal a Weltanschauung that continues to resonate today.
Adhering to Legal Frameworks and Policies
I always adhere to the legal frameworks and policies that provide the foundations for the Alberta education system. I have always maintained an awareness of, and have always responded in accordance with, the requirements authorized under the School Act and other relevant legislation. Most of all, I recognize that the professional practice of a teacher is bound by standards of conduct that expect a caring, knowledgeable and reasonable adult entrusted with the custody, care or education of students. I know that my position is in loco parentis, and as such, I engage my obligation towards the students entrusted in my care with all the seriousness it demands. I understand the expectations of the Alberta Program of Studies and deliver accordingly, while living up to the expectations of both the ATA and the Wolf Creek School Division.
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