Githa Natarajan
District of Columbia Teacher of the Year
John Eaton Elementary School, Washington, D.C
Grade 2

My teaching philosophy
My philosophy of teaching is one of caring and action. I believe that the responsibility of educating children requires far more than the intention of passing on knowledge. If we do not guide by example and inspire children to think for themselves and make right choices, we have not done our jobs. Education is an investment in the future, but just as importantly, teaching each child in an investment in that individual. Each boy and girl who will eventually go out in the world to work, create, raise a family, and become involved in their community will function in the real world every day based upon whatever rules of conduct and principles they learned in their early years. That base of knowledge we each operate from comes partly from family, and partly from our schooling experience.

My philosophy in action
My beliefs are incorporated into my teaching style by building a relationship of trust with each student and their parents. Each student is an individual. It is important to listen, be flexible and treat each student with respect. I have open communication with parents. I create a safe and nurturing environment where students want to learn.

My greatest teaching accomplishment
My greatest teaching accomplishment is using the Virtues Project to teach students character education. It’s amazing to see how children take ownership over their behavior and become more accountable for their actions.

The most critical issues facing educators today
One of the most critical issues facing our educators today is the No Child Left Behind policy. There are many pros and cons facing this issue.

Ways to resolve this issue
I think this policy needs to have educators more involved in creating such a policy, since we have hands- on experience.

One thought to inspire teachers to succeed
This is our future generation, who will one day be leading our county. It’s up to us hold high expectations for each child.

One lesson every student should learn
How to be a respectful person.

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