I believe students learn when they are placed in an effective learning environment. An effective learning environment is safe, challenging, and enjoyable.
    Students deserve to come to school each and every day with a feeling of safety and security. The school works hard to make this happen. The classroom teacher must help students feel safe enough to be themselves. In fact, I believe it is my job to help students celebrate who they are as a person, inside and out.
    If I do not stimulate a student's mind, then I am failing in my responsibility as a teacher. Students learn as they are challenged. Challenges breed confidence in those who rise up to the occasion. On the other hand, it is my duty to challenge students according to their abilities. We engage in many hands-on activities, as well as practice critical thinking skills in my classroom.
    An effective learning environment, one that is both safe and challenging, brings enjoyment to a student's life. Let's face it, no one wants to go somewhere they do not enjoy. I strive to make my students' time in my class enjoyable. Learning is hard work, but it can also be fun.