Melissa Ponton

Background

About Melissa Ponton

As a special education teacher it is my responsibility to treat each and every student as someone that has numerous possibilities and strengths. Every child has the right to learn regardless of exceptionality, cultural difference, or background. As an educator I should always be willing to embrace those differences and continually strive to learn from my students, colleagues, and my own personal development to ensure every child I encounter has the best education I am able to provide. My teaching philosophy has been shaped mostly by my experiences as a parent for over 20 years. In caring for my own children I have discovered that although I may strive to treat each of my children the same, it is not possible. Every child has a unique personality, different background, and specific needs. To treat them identically and stifle their own interests in favor of promoting a majority is not only a detriment to their growth, but to my own as well. It is only when we focus on their individual strengths and abilities that a child will truly flourish. Focusing on children’s exceptionalities and unique backgrounds as a positive aspect will create classrooms that promote community and caring. Through creativity and imagination children, as well as Special Education teachers, can create environments that not only benefit each other, but educate each other as well. Listening to each other’s opinions and getting to know one another without bias is key to creating environments that encourage democracy and a feeling of acceptance. Children learn best when they are in an environment that supports their own educational needs. Encouraging their creativity, making them feel as though their opinions and ideas matter, and instilling hope is something every child deserves.