Peggy Stewart
New Jersey Teacher of the Year
Vernon Township High School, Vernon, NJ
Grades 9-12, Social Studies and School Wide Enrichment Program

My teaching philosophy
At the heart of my teaching philosophy is an environment that evokes humane characteristics, provides a feeling of being "at home," and cultivates the minds of my students. I begin reaching students by seeing the world through their eyes. This enables me to know my students' strengths, capabilities, dreams, and obstacles. Through this I can empower them to see the big picture - to be active members of the world community.

My philosophy in action
Students are the pulse of the learning environment. I teach my students first and the content follows. My philosophy is anchored in the power of the pen, the art of communication, and the habits of the mind. I strive to empower students to move mountains through written and oral articulation. The best example is the Model U.N. that my students participate in. It is not a MUN designed only for the students that excel in the social sciences. It is a MUN designed for ALL students to learn about the complexity of the world and to gain an understanding of human values and concerns. The preparation process requires students to be at the center of the learning process as they prepare for their role as U.N. delegates. Students use the pen to write persuasive speeches and resolutions, and sharpen their public speaking skills for the Conference setting.

My greatest teaching accomplishment
Fostering an appreciation of diversity and empowering students to envision themselves as active members of the world community.

The most critical issues facing educators today
Keeping highly qualified teachers in the profession is a critical issue facing educators today.

Ways to resolve this issue
I believe we need to do more to assist new teachers in their transition from pre-service to in-service. A stronger partnership between the teaching universities and the K-12 schools could serve as a liaison and troubleshoot potential problems and trends with new teachers. Stronger teacher mentoring needs to be implemented as well.

One thought to inspire teachers to succeed
Strive to empower students to move mountains but recognize that not all mountains moved will be as grand in size as Kilimanjaro or Everest. Whether a student moves a bluff, butte, hill, or mound is inconsequential. The significance lies in each accomplishment, no matter the scale.

One lesson every student should learn
You never really know yourself until you leave your own environment and take a look from the outside in.

Back to the 2005 Teacher Profiles home page