Linda Eisinger
Missouri Teacher of the Year
Louisa E. Perritt Primary School, Jefferson City, MO
Grade 3, all subjects

My teaching philosophy
I believe that first and foremost a teacher has to want to teach. I am of the philosophy that teaching is a calling and not just a job to do until something better comes along. A teacher should want to be in that classroom more than anywhere else on that day. I strongly believe that as the teacher, it is essential to provide the student with the necessary skills, tools, and knowledge to increase the chances of success and thereby decrease the risks of failure.

My philosophy in action
I strongly believe that it is my role as the classroom teacher to provide the best education I can for my students and do so in a safe learning environment where children are free from humiliation from their peers and an insensitive teacher. I try to give each student the tools necessary for future successes.

My greatest teaching accomplishment
I feel there is no greater profession than teaching and I am proud and pleased to be a part of the lives of our children today. I have seen a child read a sentence for the first time without any mistakes and the joy on her face or the student who finally understood a math concept for the first time. These are exciting accomplishments and ones of which I am very proud to be a part.

The most critical issues facing educators today
A critical issue facing educators today is keeping students in school.

Ways to resolve this issue
Administrators have to do a better job at making sure the very best teachers are in the classroom and affecting our children's academic lives.

One thought to inspire teachers to succeed
It is the role of the classroom teacher to provide the best education they can for each child and help each child feel special and appreciated for his or her contribution to the classroom.

One lesson every student should learn
Every child can learn. They all will not learn at the same rate or maybe go as far in their learning, but every child has talents and can succeed.

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