My Profile

Statement of Philosophy

by Vanessa O. Kelly

Am I the right match for your school? Continue reading and I think you will agree that I am one of those teachers for whom you have been looking. I have taught English Language, Literature (grades 7-11) and Social Studies (grades 7-9) to students for more than eighteen (18) years. The components of English that I focus on are both written and oral which include grammar, punctuation, spelling, expression, writing, editing and speaking. Many times, I also incorporate drawing, singing and/or music, dramatization and even hands-on creative activities into my lessons to facilitate a fun and friendly positive learning environment for my students. I now recall classes with my 7th grade English teacher who took us on field trips and allowed us to express our feelings, using art or song. My love for the English Language can be attributed to the interactive way in which Mr. Inanga presented English to us and I want my students to gain that same love and appreciation for English. Because I am aware that many students learn in many different ways, I use differentiated teaching to provide each student with this unforgettable opportunity.

Additionally, I am a Homeroom Teacher which means I am the first face that my students see at the beginning of every school day. My job is to set them on the right path each day. I act as their guide to making good academic and personal decisions throughout the school year. I love being a homeroom teacher because during homeroom I get to know my students better. I get to know what they like, what they don't like. During this time, I am even able to decipher the way they learn and sometimes they teach me a thing or two as well. This knowledge then helps me to prepare lessons that each student can appreciate and fully utilize in their academic and social development. My mission, as a teacher of English, is to assist students in being better able to communicate with anyone in any situation, using the English Language.

Over the years, I have developed a love for debating. In fact, I was instrumental in assisting the debating team of the Claudia Creque Educational Centre to gain the runner-up position in the 2017 National Debating Championships in the British Virgin Islands. Although we did not win, I appreciate the hard work and dedication of these students with whom I had the privilege to work. I was also able to witness a significant positive change in students’ attitude, self confidence and school spirit right before my very eyes. It was amazing! This experience was invaluable to me and I believe that I can bring this same enthusiasm and positive attitude to any learning institution.