Valrica Miranda Maria Bryson
U.S. Virgin Island Teacher of the Year
St. Croix Educational Complex High School, St. Croix
Grade 9-12, Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced Band

My teaching philosophy
My childhood experiences, family values and talents in the areas of linguistics, rhythmic, interpersonal and spatial have all contributed to my beliefs about outstanding teaching. I have always aspired to be an excellent teacher. I am a lifelong learner who is not limited to knowing my subject area, but takes pride in understanding conceptual connections. I use these connections to reduce difficult and abstract concepts to create cues and concrete examples for students. Outstanding teachers are managers. I am able to empower students by asking for input about class procedures, topics and special events. When students’ interests are recognized, students are more engaged and responsive to the instructional program. Firm, consistent procedures and collaborative opportunities in a classroom promote higher achievement. Promoting achievement, maintaining a professional yet trusting attitude, the ability to handle difficult situations with humor, tact or decisiveness and stimulating students to do their best work are other responsibilities and characteristics that I strongly believe are critical for the educational process. As a teacher, musician, collaborator and visionary, I give considerable thought to how I educate and influence my students, protégés and colleagues.

My philosophy in action
My students are informed of my education goals at the beginning of the semester. I give them a chance to share their input regarding meeting these goals. I let them know that they are responsible for owning, meeting and setting their own goals. Each student is provided with the criteria for excellence. I provide guest presenters, fellow musicians and community persons versed in specific areas (flutists, trumpeters, pianists, vocalists, etc.) and other related performers so students are supported in meeting our objectives. My guests share their experiences and show the students the importance of applying their skills to real life pursuits. I zealously promote the talent of my students by having them participate in school activities (assembly programs, queen shows, Christmas concerts, spring concerts, feeder school programs, Saturday advance classes with professionals), community events and competitive action programs. My students also prepare portfolios. These portfolios contain pictures and catalogs of colleges that they plan to attend. I derive my reward as an educator from the return and accomplishments of my students.

My greatest teaching accomplishment
Many students have become professional musicians, music educators or recording vocal artists. I strongly believe that an excellent teacher is recognized not only for their classroom pursuits. They become leaders, mentor for incoming teachers and mentors for many misguided students.

My teaching experiences support my belief that “Music education encompasses and provides the latitude for multiple learning experiences for teachers and students.”

The most critical issues facing educators today
One of the most alarming issues in public education is the lack of parental involvement in the process of educating students for the dynamic work place, citizenry and life’s accomplishments. Parental participation is the cornerstone of success for the student, the school and the community. According to the National Education Association, in study after study, researchers discover how important it is for parents to be actively involved in their child's education. The support is often lacking for music programs, the academic and vocational curriculum and school events.

Ways to resolve this issue
First and foremost, parents must believe that schools earnestly want their participation. The problem of a lack of parental involvement is not an insurmountable one, but it does take understanding human relationships, exchange of communication, and specific planning to acquire involvement, service and significant cooperation. In my attempt to involve parents, I have shared my music goals at meetings and involved parents in making parental directories so we can communicate together. I have them sit next to their children as I am explaining the goals for the school year. I allow parents to visit me as often as necessary to discuss problems. Finally, I demonstrate my care for parents. Once students see the bond between family and school, they strive to excel for both partners.

One thought to inspire teachers to succeed
The key to sustainable learning is a knowledgeable, effective and caring teacher.

One lesson every student should learn
Every student should experience learning music.

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