Full-time lecturer in the School of Education, St. Bonaventure University, 2005-2018. Betsy retired from full-time teaching in December 2018, duty but continues to serves as an adjunct instructor in undergraduate and graduate Adolescence Education programs.
Middle School Spanish Teacher:
- Olean Middle School, Olean, NY, 1985-2005
- Jamesville-DeWitt Central Schools, Jamesville, NY, 1969-1979
Following a 30 year teaching career in New York state public middle schools, this adventure at St. Bonaventure University has given me a chance to give back to the communities that provided support to our family
We are each on a journey. We seek – we discover – we adapt – we adopt. Along the way, we learn – sometimes who we are, usually more about who we’re going to be.
As a teacher, I have the privilege of sharing my journey with the youth of today who will make a difference tomorrow. My philosophical outlook in education remains flexible to accommodate change. However my energy at all times is focused on the children and young adults with whom I interact. Each one needs to be considered developmentally, intellectually, emotionally, and physically, and then encouraged to grow in an atmosphere of respect and appropriate challenge.
I believe that every person is capable of learning and one of my tasks is to differentiate instruction to address individual needs. Education should be a creative endeavor that guides minds to explore, problem solve, and grow. Maintaining a constant awareness of multicultural opportunities for myself and for those with whom I work is important to me. I encourage an environment that promotes openness and tolerance, hoping to strengthen lifelong interpersonal skills and the ability to function effectively in “community” with others.
Education occurs IN the world, not apart from it. Communication with other professionals, parents, community agencies and student interest groups is critical to progress. Each person needs to feel a part of his or her surroundings, and that is nurtured by activities that promote participation – locally and globally. We are each on a journey. My students guide my journey – what an awesome delight.