Halen King

I believe that the purpose of education is to equip students with tools to navigate the world using empathy, practical skills, technological literacy, and an awareness for themselves and those around them. My role as a teacher means being an advocate for my students, which balances the ethical lenses of care, community, professionalism, justice, and critique.

 

As an advocate of care, it is my responsibility to be a strong voice for student learning and wellbeing. Within my classroom, I will support learning by accessing resources that are engaging, and which appropriately address student needs through differentiation. I will advocate for student wellbeing by supporting their social, emotional, and mental development by cultivating a safe and welcoming classroom that supports diversity and inclusion.

As a community advocate, I will exercise my voice within and beyond the school community aiming establish meaningful relationships with both students and colleagues, seeking opportunities for collaboration, co-design, and professional growth. I believe that having clear, purposeful dialogue with students, parents, and communities beyond creates bridges for empathy, understanding, connection, and global awareness.

 

As an advocate for justice, I will adhere to codes, policies, and legislation while remaining critical of those that do not have the student's best interest in mind. At the forefront of education are the students, whose positive development is dependant on their wellbeing. If students do not feel safe to express themselves and do not feel welcome in a classroom where they can be proud of their culture, language, abilities, orientation, and differences then this can negatively impact their emotional and social development as well as their learning.

As a teacher, I will navigate my responsibility as an advocate with professionalism and empathy, and I will continue to value and practice humility as a lifelong learner.