Andrews Elementary School - Special Education Teacher
Teaching Philosophy
What is my philosophy of education? That question initially seems intimidating and hard to answer, like trying to define the shape of water. That’s because, like water, my educational philosophy is ever-changing, ever-evolving, molding itself into whatever form it needs to be. That sounds so formal – and yet, anyone who knows me is well aware that formal I am not! So, where do I start? My philosophy of education is this – “Do your job” – it’s as simple (or as hard) as that. That “job” is whatever it needs to be to grow my students. It includes: understanding when to push and when to pull back; embracing the unexpected; talking (and listening); accepting that academics may not be the most important concept in the room at the time; learning as much (if not more) from my mistakes as my achievements; and realizing that success comes in all shapes and sizes.
When people think of education, they most often relate it to the imparting of knowledge. As teachers, we are called upon to continually adjust our teaching, utilizing the most current resources and information to develop the minds of our students and enhance their brainpower. I believe we must see a person for all that they are, not just their parts. We have the immense responsibility, not only to grow a “student,” but to develop and nurture a whole person: body, mind, heart and spirit.
Another important aspect of my educational philosophy is that it is ok to steal! How is that for an attention grabber. However, it is not what you are thinking. I am taking the liberty of paraphrasing some recent advice given by Tom Hanks to young actors as he received a lifetime achievement award. He explained that he’d been “made better by watching some of the greatest actors that have ever walked the stage.” I too, feel that I have been made better by having watched some of the best teachers. We need to value and utilize the resources around us – other teachers. I have “stolen,” or taken inspiration, from every person with whom I have worked. The people I have met over twenty-five years of teaching have helped me develop a wealth of wisdom, for which I will always be grateful. As a special education teacher, I often get to “push-in” to classes where I have the privilege of collaboration, exchanging ideas and reflecting on what worked and what didn’t to help improve student achievement. This approach also helps classroom teachers better understand the skills and strategies needed to help work with students integrated into their classrooms, so that they can be successful among their peers. These students are not just “my” students, but “our” students. Not only does this make me a better teacher, but improves the school environment as well. We “team” as Plano teachers, using each other’s strengths, talents and creativity to build a community where all children can progress and flourish. I continue to learn from and be inspired by my colleagues every day.
Finally, although education comes in many forms, special education has always had my heart. I love what I do; it’s as simple as that. My family often teases me that I would do this job even if I was not paid, and they are right (just don’t tell my boss that). I “get” to work in a profession that I am passionate about. It is the job of special education teachers to be equipped to teach students of all abilities and to understand that some kids take longer to bloom than others. Sometimes our efforts are not seen right away, but rather years later, maybe even in different places and with different teachers. I work to prepare my students to have the tools they need to live a life they are passionate about.
Principal's Recommendation
To Whom It May Concern:
I have been blessed with the privilege of knowing Tina Nauss and her incredible educational contributions for ten years, while at two campuses (Jackson and Andrews). Words cannot adequately describe the exceptional gifts and talents that Tina Nauss brings to the Andrews campus. I am thrilled that our Andrews staff chose to recognize her numerous strengths by naming her as our Teacher of the Year. Though this letter cannot do her justice, I will attempt to describe a few of the many reasons that I admire and appreciate Tina as one of our Special Education team leaders.
First, Tina stands as a communicator “extraordinaire.” Through both oral speech and written dialogue, Tina is able to say whatever needs to be said in an honest, tactful, student-centered and professional manner. These communication skills are invaluable to me and have effectively resolved conflict on many occasions.
It also bears mentioning that Tina is truly unflappable! It is unavoidable that contentious situations will periodically occur in ARD meetings, and Tina is amazingly able to keep her composure and communicate effectively in even the most difficult scenarios! It is impressive to watch as her knowledge, experience and love for children combine to diffuse anger and clarify misunderstandings. Needless to say, Tina is loved and appreciated by students, parents and staff. Her effective communication and attention to detail make parents feel comfortable, and students excel in her care.
Our staff members trust Tina as a knowledgeable special education resource, because she truly does “know her stuff.” With all the legal requirements that Special Education entails, it is both a comfort and a blessing to know that Tina stays abreast of new developments and is well-versed in Special Education law. She collaboratively oversees our Special Education program, making changes whenever necessary in order to ensure that we are adequately meeting the needs of each unique special education student.
Additionally, Tina works as a team player with campus Special Education staff, Andrews staff and campus/district administrators. Refusing to be overwhelmed by the innumerable details of her job, Tina is consistently able to see the bigger picture, recognizing what is best for students and staff and presenting her feedback in a positive manner.
Lastly, Tina’s generous spirit and profound work ethic constitute two of her most impressive qualities. While at Jackson, Tina was the only staff member who chose to work with adults and children on two evenings each week as part of the Family Literacy Program that Jackson offered for parents who want to learn English. She carried this additional responsibility for quite a length of time and obviously enjoyed this extra opportunity to interact with Jackson families and to have a positive influence on young students. At Andrews, she is always the person who is willing to stay late if someone needs her help. Additionally, she always volunteers to work in PASAR when they need an additional teacher for academic time.
In closing, a letter such as this one can give only a small picture of what Ms. Tina Nauss means to the Andrews community. Her immense talents, huge heart, incredible work ethic and love for children give her immeasurable value to us and make her such an effective teacher. She stands as an inspiration to us all, and it is my deepest honor to call Tina Nauss the BEST teacher and person in Plano!
Sincerely,
Dr. Joy Lovell
Principal
