Katie Dawson

Teaching Philosophy

Important skills I want to teach my students

The most important skill is independence. Teaching independence to our young pre-kindergarten students allows them to enjoy their challenges, work as part of a group, and take pride in their school experience.

Teaching methods to reach these goals

Individualized attention and guidance are so valuable to pre-kindergarten students. I enjoy getting to know the students individually, encouraging each with a specialized collection of strategies and methods.

My favorite projects

The lifecycle of a butterfly is my favorite project of the year. I weave vocabulary, facts, fine motor practice, observation, reference, and language development into hands-on activities that lead the children through the four stages of a butterfly’s life cycle. These skills are invaluable to the children and an exciting way to learn, while exploring such a wonderful process. I think my favorite part (and the children’s as well) is the class’s excitement over each new discovery. Some discoveries are excitedly anticipated, some surprises. The looks on the children’s faces are extraordinary, and ones I never forget.

What I like best about teaching at Seven Hills

The tremendous interlinking support system. Students, teachers, and families are working together; we all participate in conversations and decisions, working to find the best set of strategies for each student, each family.