While reading Chapter 2 of our textbook concerning model teachers and their approaches to teaching, I began to think about my favorite teacher and the reasoning behind my decision. After much consideration, I have chosen my 6-8th grade Science teacher as the one who had the most effect on my education.
Science is a difficult subject to teach, regardless of knowledge and/or student cooperation, but in Mrs. Osowski's class, you would never know it. Learning scientific concepts in her class was always fun and exciting. Science, whether it was Chemistry or Biology, was the highlight of my day. Mrs. Osowski's energy and love for her students gave the classroom an atmosphere that was quite conducive to learning scientific concepts. Experiments were never-ending. Hands-on teaching was her style. Students were able to experience the marvels of science for themselves by mixing chemicals and/or performing detailed dissections. Mrs. Osowski promoted the best type of learning since she was completely involved in the lesson and genuinely cared if the students understood, which was never a problem for me in her class.
I have given much consideration to my education in a local Catholic school and I have decided that my education would never have reached the level that it did had it not been for my private school experience. The opportunities which were presented to me formed the platform from which I learned and now understand the world around me. I believe I am truly blessed for my opportunities, although rarely did I enjoy private school when I was in attendance. Mrs. Osowski's science classes made my private school education worthwhile and for that I am gracious. She may never know how she has molded so many children's lives, but my accomplishments have not gone unnoticed by her. I have sent multiple letters to thank her for her support and the opportunities which she opened up for me. Mrs. Osowski, you are truly a step above the rest. Thank you!
-- Kelly Clynes, Florida Atlantic University