Bowman Middle School 2026

Amy Semifero

Bowman Middle School - Middle School Art Teacher, Grades 6-8
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Teaching Philosophy

Even beginning with the first draft of my teaching philosophy for my pre-service teaching portfolio, I believed the answer to the question, "What is your Philosophy of Teaching," needed to include a response which included the following educator characteristics: an individual who focused on staying up-to-date with the current trends in their field, knew that a proven method that would entice students to complete their classwork was by fostering genuine relationships with their students, and continually work towards building a partnership with the parents that is a model example of the positive outcomes when the teacher and parents work together for the benefit of the student. These educator qualities came immediately to mind and served as the main highlights in my pre-service teaching philosophy due to the fact that I had witnessed them in action by my grade school teachers, what I experienced in my cooperative teacher's classroom during my student teaching semester, and the through the advice I received from my professors at UT-Austin. Technically, there is nothing wrong with an educator to focus their beliefs in teaching utilizing these three groups. What I learned after my first year of teaching was that this education mindset limited my ability for me to build the type of interactions I was wanting to have with my students, fellow teachers and the community.

I recognized the need for my teaching philosophy to be modified to reflect the experiences I gained from Year 1. I needed to move past the typical and expected responses if I wanted my Philosophy of Teaching to accurately reflect how I viewed myself as an educator. Now-a-days, pre-service teachers are given the question "What's Your Why?" to serve as a guide to developing their teaching beliefs. While I wasn't so lucky to be given such advice, I somehow ended up there, unknowingly, by asking myself a few questions: 1) Who were the teachers that have had a lasting impression on me, 2) What did those teachers do through their actions and/or words that made me to feel comfortable, yet respect the boundaries, in their class, 3) How did the feeling of belonging as a wanted member of the class determine my success level, and 4) Why did my teachers insist on proving to me that I could tackle even the most difficult of tasks if I could just get myself started?

It is only now, in my 25th year of teaching at the secondary level, that I am able to put into words all of my feelings and beliefs pertaining to "My Why" - why I chose a career in teaching. When I have a challenging day at work and find myself questioning my life choices, reminding myself of my purpose as a teacher really is helpful and reaffirming. I teach the introductory middle school visual arts class to 187 - 6th, 7th and 8th graders. This course is considered to be an exploratory art course that encompasses all arts and media. My classroom environment is a reflection of the diverse student body at Bowman Middle School. The visual arts classroom environment is unique in its own way because every year an artistic community is organically formed. All students can be seen interacting with each other by celebrating small artistic triumphs, soliciting answers to questions pertaining to the next move on their art, and encouraging each other to trust in the process of artmaking.

My role in my classroom is not only as a teacher, but also that of a cheerleader. I actively choose to believe ALL of my students are capable of greatness. I continue to show up and guide them in ways that they will recognize that they can conquer any challenges they are faced with by continuing to persist past the struggle. Finally, and most importantly, every day my "why" is reaffirmed that I made the correct choice to become a teacher. For my students at Bowman Middle School, I get to be the educator that I needed in my life to help me recognize the importance of persistence in times of struggle.

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Principal's Recommendation

To the Teacher of the Year Selection Committee:

I am honored to write this letter of recommendation for Mrs. Amy Semifero, an exceptional educator whose impact on Bowman Middle School extends far beyond her classroom. Mrs. Semifero consistently goes above and beyond in service to students, staff, and the broader school community, and she exemplifies the very best of what it means to be an outstanding teacher and leader.

As an Art teacher, Mrs. Semifero brings creativity, rigor, and passion to her classroom, inspiring students to think critically and express themselves confidently. However, her contributions reach well beyond her role as an Art teacher. She played a key role in the development, implementation, and ongoing management of our after-school tutorial program, ensuring students received targeted academic support in a structured and meaningful way. This program has been instrumental in supporting student achievement and closing learning gaps.

Mrs. Semifero also serves as our campus PLANner, a critical leadership role focused on designing and building foundational learning for district-wide initiatives and technology integration. In this capacity, she has been an invaluable resource to both teachers and administrators. She regularly assists colleagues with grade implementation, supports staff during grading periods to ensure accuracy and compliance, and provides hands-on technology support and training. Her patience, expertise, and willingness to help have strengthened instructional practices across the entire campus.

What truly sets Mrs. Semifero apart is her unwavering dedication and selflessness. Her commitment is not limited to Bowman Middle School; when a neighboring campus faced challenges due to a teacher's illness, Mrs. Semifero willingly stepped in to support the long-term substitute. Through her efforts, those students continued to receive high-quality instruction and stability during a difficult time.

Mrs. Semifero is a dependable leader, a collaborative colleague, and a tireless advocate for students. Her work ethic, professionalism, and heart for service have made a lasting impact on our campus culture and student success. She leads quietly but powerfully, and her influence is felt in every corner of our school.

Without hesitation, I give Mrs. Amy Semifero my highest recommendation. She truly exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding educator and is more than deserving of recognition as Teacher of the Year.

Sincerely,

Felipe Torres
Principal
Bowman Middle School