My name is Michelle Martino. I have been working as an elementary school teacher since September 1999. I have my Master’s Degree in Childhood Education. I have been teaching remotely since March 2020. I believe that all children have the ability to learn. Not every child learns the same way or at the same pace. Teachers need to be very mindful of this especially when it comes to planning lessons. A successful teacher is aware of diverse learning styles. All children deserve an equitable opportunity at education. I also believe that my vast experience with children with diverse backgrounds and abilities has provided me with valuable experiences educating diverse students with academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs. I am eager for the opportunity to expand those experiences and look forward to new challenges in my career. My goal is to put all students first. All of the planning and preparation for my lessons revolve around the best interest of the students. Students are entitled to have a rigorous instruction that follows a district curriculum. I have developed the ability to engage and cultivate a positive learning environment where my students consistently feel supported. Furthermore, my strong leadership skills, grade leader experience, and organizational skills help me to work cooperatively with colleagues as well as administration, building a team spirit that benefits all students. I have a strong passion to educate young minds and impart on them a love of learning that will help them become well-rounded and successful individuals. A successful teacher is one who shows the students passion and enthusiasm for learning along with caring about each individual student as a person. Teachers should engage the children’s minds and hearts. I believe that a teacher needs to be very patient with the students and show care and compassion for all their needs. I believe that modeling is an effective instruction strategy for all students and it is also an excellent class management technique. Children are motivated to learn when they have opportunities to make choices in an environment that is enriching and stimulating. Student’s need a safe, inviting, and welcoming environment that is conducive to learning. The classroom should also be an environment that is respectful to all. Teacher’s should create an environment that has consistent, predictable routines in place. I believe that modeling respect for my students and colleagues, as well as setting high expectations for student behavior will result in a positive classroom climate. Lastly, I believe parents, teachers, and administrators need to work together as a team to fulfill what is best for the well-being of each child. As an educator my goal is to guide students, teach them to carry on and watch them develop in their own way, as they grow and become lifelong learners. I also received certification in ASD NEST from Hunter College. I worked in the NEST program at my school for 5 years. It included a group of students on the spectrum combine into a classroom with general education students.