A Message from our Teacher:Tenneile Schrader

My interest in teaching began in my basement with my sisters where we would play school and I was the teacher. I was the one that gave them books to read, coloring sheets to color and insisted that homework be done before we went out to play. My ideas of teaching have changed since I was five, but my desire and passion to work with children has not.

            Why I became a teacher:

1. The challenges that you face everyday are never the same,
2. I love working with children,
3. Students success brings self-gratification
4. To be a positive role model for young students

My path to teaching officially started when I was accepted into the transfer program at Red Deer College. During my year and a half at RDC, I met many other students and professors who would support me in developing new and exciting ideas and philosophies on teaching. At this time, I was beginning to feel accepted in a world where influencing young minds and changing their lives would be a life challenge, a challenge which was tremendously exciting for me. I continued my journey at the University of Alberta where I would really gain an understanding of the mechanics behind what teaching was all about. During my first practicum at Northmount Elementary School, I was placed in a learning strategies classroom where I was to teach students with learning disabilities. The time I spent in that classroom showed me that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. My second practicum at McKernan School was a challenge.  I was placed in an extensions classroom for the gifted. Being in a classroom with five boys, all with an IQ over 135, showed me that as a teacher I am going to make mistakes but as long as I persevere anything is possible.

            I strive to stimulate my students through my enthusiasm for teaching and learning. If I am not excited about what I am teaching it is unfair to expect enthusiasm from them. I believe that all children have the right to learn regardless of ability or disability. I view each student as an individual and honor different learning styles, abilities and frustrations with sensitivity and respect. This is where patience and accommodation is an integral component of my teaching style. I show respect for students through simple gesture, such as learning their names, being pleasant and helpful, and listening to what they have to say. The result of showing respect is that students are more open to sharing their ideas, feelings, and opinions making the learning environment student centered.