My Pledge:

In the classroom I will create higher thinking skills by asking children to think of answers, and actually explain how they got that particular answer. I will engage the children constantly by challenging them to achieve high above average.

I will also teach children necessary and valuable skills needed to succeed as an adult. These skills will include respect for one another’s cultures, socio economic statuses, and religious affiliations; thereby helping to produce ethical children with high values for their citizens in society. I will hold high expectations for all students, understanding there are different developmental levels. I will also learn what is common and unique among different groups, reaching out to families to learn about their cultures; helping students to affirm and accept their cultural identities.

As an educator I will advocate both within and outside of the profession for high quality education for all students at all levels. Influencing decision makers and promoting changes to laws and other government policies to advance the mission of a high quality education for all. I will do my part as an educator to be heard by senators, board of education members, and assemblymen. Fighting for the rights of teachers to teach for life, and not teach in order for students to pass a test.

I will be a skillful teacher that will stimulate, motivate and develop the minds of students. Living by the words of Helen Caldicott , "Teachers, I believe, are the most responsible and important members of society because their professional efforts affect the fate of the earth."