Ms. Rob’s Philosophy of Education

“A teacher’s ability to establish rapport, build trust and then a relationship is the skill set necessary to be an inspiration.”

-Leslie Rob, M.Ed.

William Arthur Ward stated that, “The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.”  It is my goal to be the latter. I believe that a teacher’s ability to inspire their students is essential to the success of educating them. Inspiration comes through the establishment of a rapport that is built between the teacher and the students. In my teaching experience I have ascertained that students, to whom I have built a rapport with, completely surpass the levels of dedication and achievement of others. Inspiration and rapport “go hand in hand” in my classroom. 

When rapport has been established, then trust is built; with trust, comes relationship and with relationship comes inspiration. In my class, whether it is during instructional time or after-school, I make it my mission to connect with my students. In doing so, I believe I can accomplish my goal of becoming the “great teacher” that Ward mentions. I utilize this approach to connect with even the most difficult students. However, I do not believe that this is a “one size fits all” approach. 

Students come from varied backgrounds, intellect and life experiences that may hinder their ability to trust which can cripple my ability to reach them; but does not prohibit my ability to try. As a teacher it is important to remember that despite their diverse backgrounds and disabilities, any willing student inspired by a great teacher can learn. A teacher’s ability to establish rapport, build trust and then a relationship is the skill set necessary to be an inspiration.