Susan Ryder
Colorado Teacher of the Year
Estes Park Middle School, Estes Park
Grades 6-8 Language Arts, Student Council, Creative Writing

My teaching philosophy
Painted in purple on my classroom’s western cement-block wall is a statement that reflects my seventh-graders' adventuresome spirits. It is a universal theme that applies to life in the classroom and life at home, the study of language, and middle-school philosophy. Each day, these nine simple words remind me and my students to engage in humanity’s journey, let go of the shoreline and set sail. "You are the Author of your own Life Story" is our challenge to take charge, take action, and take care of our unique moment in time.

My philosophy in action
Throughout the year, I encourage my students to take charge of their own education. Whether they are writing creatively in their writers’ notebooks, drafting letters to authentic audiences, or selecting new books to read, I support their choices. In middle school, students struggle with transitioning from child to young adult. I encourage my kids to embrace this time of change, to recognize their individuality and capitalize on their strengths. In class, we familiarize ourselves with test data, setting goals for academic growth and general good health. We use our favorite music and lyrics when studying grammar, write together about individual and collective interests, and ask for constructive criticism during “author’s chair.” We facilitate partnerships. We value one another’s input. I share with my kids the “real” me, complete with faults and frustrations, and model for each of them the blessings of lifelong learning.

My greatest teaching accomplishment
This fall, when I was contacted by a former student—an enthusiastic writer in high school—my heart skipped a beat. I was thrilled to hear that she is in her second year of teaching seventh-grade language arts, my current position as well. She emailed me to extend her congratulations and to let me know that she valued the time she spent in my classroom. I remember her as an aspiring creative writer, focused on getting the most out of her junior-level literature class. Now I can add to that memory a vision of a teacher, sharing her enthusiasm for learning with her students. I hope to visit her classroom soon. After thirteen years of teaching, I still get excited over my students' successes, no matter how long it might have been since they walked through my classroom door.

The most critical issues facing educators today
Children deserve to learn in a safe, nurturing environment from adults who express genuine interest in their lives. For some children, interactions with teachers and school staff are the most positive experiences of their day. Students want to learn when they are challenged and valued; even those with the toughest exteriors desire positive relationships. Not only must we differentiate instruction within our classrooms, but the school environments themselves must be differentiated according to the academic and societal needs of their student populations. No longer does one educational model fit the needs of every student population.

Ways to resolve this issue
When needs arise, local schools and districts must be quick to act, adapting their schools accordingly beyond a “one size fits all” model. Fluid funding is a must in order to program change. If one community’s needs necessitate an alternative school-day schedule or larger vocational program, timely and adequate funding should be made available without constraints imposed by typical bureaucracy. High standards, rigorous curriculum, and accountability can flourish within a fluid educational environment.

One thought to inspire teachers to succeed
“You must be the change you want to see in the world.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi

One lesson every student should learn
“As your island of knowledge grows, so does your shoreline of wonder.” ~Anonymous

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