My education philosophy centers on equipping my students with skills for life by addressing the whole child.  Through the theatre curriculum, I focus on teaching them how to be servant leaders by providing opportunities for students to take ownership in their learning; effective communicators and critical thinkers by honing our feedback skills and critical eyes; as well as compassionate citizens and collaborative team members through the production process.  The function of theatre in education is unique in that it provides students with comprehensive experiences involving intellectual, emotional, and social learning situations that enhance the basic curriculum needs. The art of theatre naturally lends itself to student success by varying different teaching methodologies that reach all students whether it be one on one acting exercises, small group learning, memorization activities, lecture, technology-based activities, cooperative learning or research.  Along with the teaching process, I am determined to encourage my students to take risks whether in the classroom or on the stage preparing to perform. Beyond the basic requirements of the curriculum, I want my students to take meaning from these learning experiences and apply these concepts to their own lives. Through this, I hope to make all of my students life-long learners who will take the skills learned in my class into whatever the future may hold for them. Finally, I believe that a theatre program creates an almost magical, safe environment which allows individuals the freedom to express themselves and grow on a personal level that will make them successful human beings. My goal is to give kids the incredible experiences and opportunities I had when I was in theatre in high school. I grew so much as an individual and learned so much from my director.  I want my students to consider themselves part of a family and to develop the strong bond that families will always share. My goal as an educator is to be there as I can for my students and to enable them to produce shows that will impact people’s lives and make a difference in the world.