Amanda Henninger

Introduction: As a teacher, I have a student centered classroom. My students created our class rules at the beginning of the year, and have various areas of the classrooms that are designated for their own creative ideas/ inspirations. In example, I have a world map connected to a cork board, where students have placed pins over places that they have visited and loved, and places they plan to visit one day. They lead discussions, ask each other questions, and work together to understand new concepts. I view student engagement and input as the central element of classroom learning. I allow them the opportunity to choose assignments that best fit their learning style, create their own rubrics and projects that will demonstrate their mastery of a skill, while additionally providing the structure and guidance that is needed in a foreign language classroom. I speak in the target language consistently and for 85% of the class (or more) to engage students in learning the language. I have received highly effective observational ratings for creating a culture for learning in my classroom, based on respect, support, and a dedication to high standards. I love working with my students. I especially enjoy seeing the "light bulb"go off when they understand a new concept. It is really rewarding for me. I also like having the ability to create a learning environment for students where they can explore new ideas and teach other, and sometimes teach me something new.