1. Amanda Kedra 5 Ws as a Teaching Professional

2. Who am I? Senior Undergraduate Student at the University of Rhode Island Secondary Education & History Head Resident Advisor in an Upperclassman Residence Hall Aldrich Hall at U.R.I. Fun Fact: I grew up in 3 hometowns! Parsippany, New Jersey Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, British West Indies “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” -Albert Einstein

3. Why do I want to be a teacher? During my own years of formal education, I have continuously admired my teachers I have largely been inspired by my Social Studies teachers in my decision to enter the field of Social Studies education and inspire others Teaching provides a continuous learning experience, and it is both challenging and rewarding – I think that’s what makes it so worthwhile! My Strengths Positivity Patience Creativity Fairness Adaptability Appreciation of diversity

4. Behavioral Approach Out with the bad, in with the good! On a daily basis I provide positive reinforcement to students by explicitly acknowledging their achievements through praise To maintain the novelty of concrete reinforcers I reward those students who have demonstrated desirable academic and/or behavioral achievement with individual prize items at the end of each quarter Managerial Approach Expect the best and nothing less! I accept the role of facilitator in my classroom, encouraging all students to participate and take ownership of the classroom, as it belongs to them as much as it belongs to me By implementing clear procedures, the structure and efficiency of our classroom teaches students the skills necessary to fulfill their civic duties What is my philosophy of teaching?

5. Humanistic Approach All that glitters may be gold! The National Council for the Social Studies pledges to prepare students for college, career, and civic life These ideals are exactly what I plan to promote in my classroom By modeling independence, self- regulation, and reflection I consistently encourage all students to take ownership of their behavior Authoritative Approach No excuses! By communicating, enforcing, and teaching my classroom rules to all students I assist them in making a connection between our classroom and the society in which we live I provide clear expectations for all students, which means that I do not accept excuses for inexcusable actions I also encourage students to appreciate the benefits of an orderly society for all What is my philosophy of teaching?

6. What are the classroom rules? Respect Treat all persons in the classroom with complete respect, including yourself (the student), classmates, teachers, substitutes, and any guests in our classroom Responsibility Be prepared for class – this includes bringing all needed materials to each class (notebook, writing instruments, covered textbook, and completed assignments) Accountability Remember that you are accountable for all of your actions (or inactions) and it is not appropriate to blame others for your own decisions and behavior

7. What is my PBIS? My Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) system is built upon the same foundation as my classroom rules – both systems have been developed with the overarching themes of Respect, Responsibility, and Accountability Tier 1 targets 80-90% of students Preventative actions to promote academic success and appropriate behavior for all Tier 2 targets 5-10% of students Specialized secondary interventions to promote success for at-risk students Tier 3 targets 1-5% of students Intense, durable, and individualized interventions to fit individual student’s needs

8. Final Thoughts Final Thoughts To all of my students, I am always here to support you on your journey to success. Let’s have a great year together! -Miss Kedra