Kathie Steele
Alaska Teacher of the Year
Chugiak High School, Chugiak, AK
Grades 9 & 12, English & Reading

My teaching philosophy
I believe in giving students as many experiences as possible. I believe that the more eclectic the lesson, the easier it will be to remember a concept. I believe that all kids can learn and should be accountable to a standard.

My philosophy in action
I work with my colleagues, parents, kids and community members to deliver the best possible teaching practices to my students. I continually challenge myself by trying new strategies, keeping current with technology and taking classes. I also attend as many conferences as possible to keep sharp on policy and issues that affect my practices.

My greatest teaching accomplishment
It is not just a single thing that keeps me looking forward to each day. It is the affirmation I get from kids when they are trying their hardest; when I get that "Ah ha!" from them it feels magical. I also love it when I see parents in the grocery store and they want me to know how well their kid is doing in college.

The most critical issue facing educators today
I think that accountability for students is certainly a big issue. We are facing the difficulty of assessing what we do as teachers to help students achieve a standard. If our kids are not able to get to the mark, then how do we get them there?

Ways to resolve this issue
This will be a slow process. I do believe that we need to carefully examine which teaching practices are currently successful and begin to explore what else we can do. Educating a person is a complex process and we all have a stake in how that happens.

One thought to inspire other teachers to succeed
I believe that teachers are interesting creatures. We certainly don't teach for the money or the vacation or the great hours. Instead, we teach because it challenges us every day. Teaching rewards me every day and keeps me fresh and alive. There is nothing else like it.

One lesson every student should learn
Every lesson learned in school is as important as what you learn about life outside of school.

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