GENERAL
My working philosophy in general, starts with the people I am going to work with.
The most important thing that I must consider is where the appropriate starting
point is and what the others are capable of grasping and understanding.
The next area that I take into account is what the desired outcomes are that I
want my job to come away with. Here I have to be familiar with the standards
before planning "how" and "what" I am going to work. In order for me to be
successful in my work, I must set reasonable goals for myself and my colleagues,
which we will accomplish together.
The third aspect of my general attitude is what strategies I will employ as I
try to engage other people. Creativity and experience are necessary to captivate
people for whichever matters. The more experience a person has, the more they
have picked up along the way, and the more they know what works and what doesn't,
but experience is gained as time goes by.
MANAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP
I feel the best thing I bring to my work is my leadership ability and my sense
of humor. People must have a sense of responsibility and justice in the
management of the tasks. Roles need to be understood and respected. The
environment should be a warm and inviting atmosphere, but one where tasks are
respected, responsibilities are carried out, and standards are in place.
My role as a leader is to be organized and prepared. That is an extremely
important aspect of being a good, effective guide. The smartest people don't
necessarily make the most successful leaders.
I have found that where there is interest and motivation without fear of
condemnation, there is most often accomplishment takes place. This is especially
true in my mathematics classrooms, where motivation is critical for success.
Maintaining a balance of intrigue and victory provides a nice structure to
achieve mastery and appreciation.
OUTSIDE THE WORK
My philosophy of working is largely a reflection of my philosophy of living.
There are many factors outside the work environment that I would like to tie
into my beliefs. My colleagues are very important partners as we work together
sharing ideas, strategies, experiments, and philosophies. Also, I believe that
all multicultural needs should be met everywhere, whether cultural, economical
or social.
I try to be an example and share my own views and experiences and how I have
changed as a human being and continue to grow. I view each person as an
individual and honor different life styles, abilities and frustrations with
sensitivity and respect. This is where patience and accommodation is an integral
component of my style. Indeed, I believe in support and encouragement for all. I
will help people to allow their individuality to shine brightly.
Telma Castro
Educator in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
