Tammy Chase

I create a safe space by letting the student know that the only "dumb" question, is one not asked.  Everyone ,makes mistakes no matter the age of the person.  It's what you learn from your mistake that counts. 

I learned that having a positive attitude makes learning a lot more fun and engaging.  Students know that my class is a safe space and the more mistakes they make, the more they will learn.

Setting expectations right in the beginning is important.  I make sure to let them know how excited I am to be experiencing this journey with them and how much fun we will have during the year learning about the topics I will be teaching.  I walk the students around the lab and explain what safety precautions they need to take in order to make sure everyone is safe.

Building a positive relationship with students helps you earn the respect and trust.  Not everyone learns the same and being able to recognize when a student needs help is important.

I was very fortunate to have a great principal who has and still does mentor me on the academic side of teaching.  Learning about  competencies and acronyms and dealing with the different types of learning styles.  She is always available to answer all of my questions.

I taught at the college level and I can honestly say that teaching in a high school CTE setting is so  different.  There are many differences between the two.  Boundaries in a high school setting are necessary for students.  They allow you to help the student understand that the class isn't  free for all and they learn what is and isn't acceptable.  If you set the boundaries and rules immediately at the beginning, then the student knows what to expect.  I pride myself on running a tight ship and the respect I'm given from my students makes me feel proud… >>>

I learned about the history of the CTE programs and the changes throughout the years that have brought it to it's current state.  I learned the importance of partnering with local businesses in order to help suppport the CTE programs.  Also the importance of hands on education is a positive tool that helps prepare students to enter the real world in their choice of study.