I believe all children can experience academic and personal growth, though they do not develop and learn in the same ways and at the same speeds.  At the core of my teaching is a deep sense of care for and commitment to the individual student.  I believe students have the greatest opportunity for success when they are learning within the context of a relationship or community of trust, care, and respect.  When it's a safe place to learn, it's a safe place to take risks, to share one's own work and ideas.  That is a perfect setting to pursue collaboration based on excellent communication as we create and think critically about our world.