Personal Narrative: My Move To Bluffton

In 2008 I moved to Bluffton to help start a new aluminum remelt facility called Alexin. I was one of three invited to make the move from western Kentucky by the presidents of Alexin because of my knowledge of the industry, my reputation as a hard worker, and my positive attitude. In the past nine years a lot has changed. Even though I know longer work in the aluminum industry, I still pride myself on my knowledge, reputation, and attitude. The job has changed, but what it takes to be successfully in any occupation has not.
I left the industrial field in 2011 and went back to school to pursue a career in education where I could combine two things that I have a strong desire for; helping adolescents and teaching the social sciences. While attending
IPFW I was able to receive several scholarships and recognitions based on my 3.64 GPA but more importantly, I learned how to balance my studies with raising and caring for a family.
My wife Danielle and I married in June 2010. Just a few months later we were given full custody of my nephew Braxton.In 2014, our adoption of Braxton was complete and he is now, and has always really been, our son. Danielle and I are expecting his sister to arrive in late April 2017.
My teaching philosophy is really a mix of traditional ideology and new technology. I believe that students have always and will always require basic needs met. They need to feel safe and secure in the classroom but also need motivation provided as well. I also believe that grit is needed in today’s youth and it is part of the teacher’s responsibility to help instill that personal quality into students.
I also believe in using the technology available to provide a variety of teaching strategies. This can include everything from classroom management to checking for understanding. Students need to be provided with several resources and options to help keep motivation continuous.