Amy McCormick

Background

About Amy McCormick

I've always been drawn to the "underdog." I found my home in Special Education, because I have a heart for people who are a little bit different. I recognize that every child, no matter their ability level, has something to give to our school and to the community. My students are some of the most amazing people! Their perspective on the world enriches me every day. I believe humans are born curious, and eager to make sense of the world around them. Despite an innate desire to learn, the process of academic learning is a complex puzzle, different for every student. Despite individual differences, I believe there are core fundamentals that foster student learning. First, I believe that learning is enhanced when students work in real-world contexts. When students are given tasks that have clear connections to real life, they see the work as relevant and are naturally more curious and intrinsically motivated. Second, I believe that students need to be active participants in the learning process. They need to understand learning objectives and how they will know if they have met them. They take ownership in the process when given choice in the process or methods to reach the objective. They need to practice metacognition and perform regular self-assessment of their progress. Another important part of the learning process – related to student’s ownership and active participation – is developing a growth mindset. Learners need to understand that academic success is earned through hard work and perseverance. They need to embrace challenge and develop a positive mental attitude. Finally, I believe that learning should be student-centered, and student directed. Effective teachers are facilitators that provide structure and focus through guided discovery and experiential learning activities.