My whys
WHY DID I BECOME A TEACHER?
As I previously mentioned, I grew up in a rural village in Trinidad and Tobago and at the time that I graduated, not many students were college graduates. I felt honored and proud to be the first and only member of my family to obtain a university degree at the time that I did, despite my many life challenges. After attaining my degree, I was inspired to become a teacher in order to help students who also faced challenges to succeed academically, show personal growth, believe in themselves and make their dreams come true. So, for 24 years, I was a High School Math teacher in high-needs schools with the philosophy that ALL students can learn and achieve their goals, and I have worked passionately and tirelessly to help my students achieve their dreams. Despite the number of years I taught, every year was and continues to be a great learning experience for me!
MY TEACHING QUOTE
Similar to the stages that the lotus flower goes through to be unique and extraordinary, I will encourage and support my students growth of self and intellect, despite any challenges they face so they can blossom into amazing individuals who see their inner magnificence, uniqueness, intellect and distinctiveness when learning and connecting with society - Cherry-Anne Gildharry (2013)
WHY DO I WANT TO BE AN INSTRUCTIONAL COACH?
During my time in America, I have gained the greatest growth in my career relating to teaching and learning, and more specifically, instructional practices, assessment, data use, technology integration, movement to learn and so many other strategies. In Trinidad and Tobago, I acquired the most growth in curriculum design and real-world applications as well as teaching practices and styles. In both countries, I was very moved by the support that was provided to me along the way by people who believed in me. However, I have also experienced how the lack of support can have a negative effect on teachers' morale and effectiveness. Both experiences have shaped my mindset and outlook tremendously and have instilled an enduring focus and deep desire to be an inspiration and motivator to teachers. I want to be able to understand them and their needs and support them in developing their uniqueness and styles, make their dreams come true and help them shine and soar to greater heights! Being an instructional coach will allow me to have this great impact, always remembering the exceptional support I had from leaders and giving this back, but also using my challenging experiences to provide even more support, understanding and compassion. In showing my gratitude for all that I was taught, and in paying it forward, it is my deepest desire to share the strategies that I have acquired during my 24 years and which made me the educator that I am today, through this invaluable role of instructional coaching.
MY INSTRUCTIONAL COACHING QUOTE
Similar to the unique cycles and individual stages that the butterfly goes through to acquire transformation and develop wings, I will do whatever it takes to support each teacher's and team's individual needs and goals, and allow them the time to develop even stronger wings so that their excellence, uniqueness and dynamism will soar ~ Cherry-Anne Gildharry (2017)