Section Two:

Teacher Candidate Background Experiences

Introduction

Throughout my entire life I always have been asked the question "What do you want to

be when you grow up"? My answers always varied from a chef, to a police officer, to a city

foreman, then to teacher. I think that teaching falls into the category of a "good job" as people

might say. After obtaining my undergraduate degree I decided to take a year off to see where the

world would take me. I would often think about the next chapters in my life and what I enjoy to

do. After putting all the pieces of the puzzle together they all lined up with a teacher. I have

always enjoyed and take pride in being leader, I work well with children, and I enjoy the school

setting. I finally decided that I would like to go to teachers college to pursue this new found

dream of mine. My personality is often laid back and relaxed with an emphasis on accountability

for those around me. I think the way I act and carry myself as a person will suit me well in

becoming a strong teaching candidate.

In section one of this MSED Elementary portfolio I described to you how this would aim

to prove my readiness to become an educator. I also strive to demonstrate to you how I posses

the main teaching competencies that include planning, instruction, and assessment. I take great

pride in becoming a teaching candidate. Every student I have worked with during this experience

I have given my outmost respect. I realize it is my job to provide a caring and welcoming

environment for my students while at school. In section two of this MSED Elementary portfolio I

will take you, the reader through my background experiences in education, and work. I will also

discuss my philosophy of teaching while mentioning some important people in my life who have

impacted my journey so far. This will also include a copy of my resume, school observations and
classroom applications, as well as a conclusion that will mention the importance of my

background experiences and how they have impacted my current life.

Educational Experiences

Throughout my secondary schooling experience my favourite subjects included science,

Phys-ed, and law. These seem like pretty generic subjects that most people often find interesting.

When I got into University I learned quickly that classes were much more specific and focused

on certain things. I enjoyed taking classes that were focused around sports because I have an

interest there. These included some classes in my undergraduate degree, and a couple of labour

studies classes. My undergraduate degree is in Recreation and Leisure Studies from Brock

University. You might think about what recreation has to do with teaching and that is a fair

assumption to make. I will tell you that there are many similarities between recreation and

teaching. In recreation we had to make many plans that would focus on the demographic of a

city. In teaching we need to make many lesson plans that focus on the demographic of a

classroom and our students. In recreation it was essential for me to go out into the community

and present myself in an organized fashion that would be appealing to the public eye. In teaching

it is important to carry ourselves as professionals for our students, parents, and colleagues. I was

also a student athlete which got me involved in the community.

Being a student athlete was difficult at times because of the amount of outside work that

combined with school work. I was on the lacrosse team throughout high school and university

which gave me the opportunity to represent my school by being respectful and presentable.

During my last two years of high school I was the captain of the lacrosse team which put an

emphasis on my leadership skills. I feel like I flourished in this role based of my ability to carry

myself as a genuine person. I was awarded the spirit award in grade 12 for my passion and
dedication to the lacrosse team. When I look back, there are a couple of experiences that have

impacted my willingness to become an educator.

The first is when I was playing lacrosse I had a coach who impacted me in a positive

way. Coach B always expected the best from me. I see resemblance between a coach and an

educator. This is because coaches often develop practice plans and drills that are generated

towards developing the skills of their players. In teaching, we develop lesson plans and activities

that are generated towards developing the skills of our students. Coach B demonstrates the

outmost respect and trust for me as an athlete. He always told me that in order to achieve my

goals in life there will always be work that is needed. I could not agree more because I believe

that everything in life is worth working for. The way in which coach B believed in me is the

same way I will believe in my students. I think it is essential for educators to expect the best

from our students similar to the way this coach B expected the best out of me. It is important to

be respectful, genuine, and caring while in the classroom. At times, the students best work might

need some extra support from me as the educator. I would be more than happy to provide my

students with anything they need. I will always value coach B and his ability to educate in the

world of sports. Another experience of mine occurred in my grade 12 law class.

In my grade 12 law class I was instructed with a group of my peers to conduct a

presentation that would allow us to be the teacher for the day. In my grade 12 mind I was

thinking the teacher wanted a day off and in turn made us teach for the class. As I look back on

this experience I feel that it has greatly impacted my experience towards becoming an educator.

The project consisted of a group of 3 students including myself, developing an interactive

classroom environment for our assigned date. Although at this time I was unaware of the correct

teaching terms, we essentially developed an anticipatory set using prior knowledge, a lesson that
corresponded to our topic, and closure to our lesson that allowed students to reflect on the lesson

by showing what they have learned. Our anticipatory set consisted of a video that introduced our

topic and allowed our fellow classmates to activate their prior knowledge in regards to what we

have already learned about it. Our lesson consisted of a PowerPoint presentation that gives

students the information they needed to succeed. Our closure was a jeopardy team competition

that provided the class a way to show what they have learned while competing for a prize. I think

that in the moment I did not realize that this experience would give me a memorable moment to

look back on while completing the MSED program at Medaille. I also believe that most

memorable moments are reflected on rather than lived during the moment. We see value after the

fact.

I think it is safe to say that my educational experiences have affected me in a positive

way when it comes to the future role as an educator. I can't thank coach B enough for his impact

on how to carry myself and expect the best from my students. I also place an emphasis on my

experiences that have allowed me to develop into the person I am today. I strive to be the best

human being I possibly can, while being respectful and understanding to those around me. I feel

that my qualities and experiences allow me to be prepared to be a professional in the field of

education.

Work Experiences

When finishing school it put an end to my athletic career and I felt it was my duty to give

back to the community that has given me so much growing up. I would like nothing more than to

provide people with a childhood full of life experiences that are both fun and remarkable. With

this being said I decided to coach hockey and lacrosse. This consumes much of my time but

gives me the opportunity to work with the future generation and provide them with memories
that will last a lifetime. I also have had the opportunity to volunteer in a school before coming

into the MSED Elementary program at Medaille. I feel this experience in the school is what

tipped the scale and ultimately influenced my decision to become a professional in the field of

education. One of my first work experiences was in a restaurant. Although it does not have a

direct relation to education I feel that it allowed me to develop skills that translate well to

becoming an educator.

While working in a restaurant I was able to collaborate with my peers in a way that

would benefit each and every one of us. I was also able to lead a kitchen when called upon to

produce the best product for our guests. The kitchen also offered many high pressure situations

which force me to act quickly while remaining ethically responsible. I feel that all of these

qualities translate well to becoming a successful education professional. Working with other

teachers and collaborating peers are essential to professional development. Acting ethically

responsible in high pressure situations is something that can often arise when in the classroom

setting. Being a leader of a kitchen while positively directing associates can be translated into the

classroom through leading students and guiding their learning to success. I feel that my voice and

confidence allows me to be respected and viewed as a positive and trustworthy leader. I also give

much of my free time to coach sports in my local community.

Coaching minor sports has allowed me to place an emphasis on the needs of each player.

This is similar to the classroom setting where we as educators place an emphasis on the needs of

each student. I feel that the role of a coach is also the role of a mentor and a leader. It is with

great pride and passion in which I strive to provide the greatest possible outcomes for each of my

players. I feel that coaching a sports team and teaching a classroom are extremely similar. While

coaching there are players who are stronger in some scenarios than others. In teaching there are
students who are stronger in some subjects than others. It is up to me as the educator to provide

these students with the greatest opportunities to succeed. I walk into the arena with the ultimate

goal of providing a remarkable experience for each of my players. Similar to how I will walk

into the school with the ultimate goal of providing a positive educational experience for each of

my students. While coaching I also have the opportunity and duty to interact with parents. I feel

this experience has given me the opportunity to talk to parents both efficiently and effectively

when necessary. This is similar to the school setting in regards to parent teacher interviews. My

volunteer experience in the school is what influenced me the most to apply for the MSED

program at Medaille with the goal of becoming a qualified teaching candidate.

A family friend of mine is a principal in a local school. I was lucky enough to be able to

experience the school setting and work with students prior to my decision to apply for the MSED

Elementary program at Medaille. I feel this experience shaped my understanding for the school

environment while proving to myself I have the abilities to be a successful educator. This was

also a volunteer experience in which I gave away my free time to come to the school and assist

with teachers, and students who needed extra help during any given time. It is difficult for me to

explain just how much this experience has impacted the person I am today. I worked with

excellent teachers who have guided me in the right direction by sharing their experiences and

educational values with me. I was able to soak in all of this information and do my best to apply

it to any situation I am faced with. I was given the privilege to develop lesson plans, teach my

lessons, mark assessments, read with students, and interact with colleagues. I tried to come to the

school as much as I possibly could because I found the experience extremely rewarding. The

reaction of the students when I walk into the classroom is a satisfying feeling that I will always
cherish. This volunteer experience also allowed me to help coach the Gr. 5 handball team at a

local tournament. I also do the best I can to help students succeed in all aspects of education.

I feel that both my work and volunteer experiences have developed me into a well

qualified teaching candidate with the necessary background knowledge I can use in an everyday

classroom. I am extremely grateful to have the opportunity to volunteer in a school prior to

starting the MSED Elementary program at Medaille. It has given me the experience needed to

feel comfortable and welcomed in a school setting. I also believe my kitchen experience in a

high paced environment while working collaboratively with peers can transition well into the

classroom setting. Lastly, my experience with coaching minor sports teams has allowed me to

work directly with children and communicate effectively with parents. All of my experiences and

knowledge will transition well into becoming a successful teaching candidate.

School Observations

I have had the opportunity through the MSED Elementary program at Medaille to

observe in multiple classrooms. To me, observe means to notice and soak in information that I

feel is important. My first observation occurred in an urban community in Buffalo, New York in

a grade 4 classroom. This is one of the rare cases where I was able to sit and observe instead of

being integrated into the classroom structure. I'm sure most of the students actually wondered

what I was doing there because of the limited interaction we had during this time. On the brighter

side, I was able to soak in the things the teacher did that worked well to gain the attention of the

students. One of the things I noticed was the teachers ability to model prior to the students

working on their own. Modeling is an important part of teaching because it guides the students in

the right direction. This aligns with the gradual release of responsibility which comes from many

theorists such as Vygotsky and Piaget. Gradual release of responsibility provided a balance
between the extremes of teacher responsibilities and student responsibilities (Webb, Massey,

Goggans, & Flajole, 2019). I feel that modeling and displaying the gradual release of

responsibility eases students into the assignments because it provides them the opportunity to

learn and try things out prior to being engaged in the activity.

My second experience in this Buffalo, New York location was in a Kindergarten setting. I

feel this experience offered me great value because I was able to interact with the students and

develop rapport. This environment was a lot more busy than my previous experience in a grade 4

classroom. I enjoyed my time here and would not mind teaching at this level one day.

My first experience in Ontario occurs in a urban community. This experience was in a

grade 2 classroom. After gaining teacher approval I was able to design lessons and do a thing we

called team-teach. During team-teaching myself and the homeroom teacher are both at the front

of the classroom. I direct the students through the lesson and aim to answer any questions they

might have. If at any time I feel stuck the teacher is there to provide assistance. I feel that this is

definitely a good way to learn more and gain experience because I am actually integrated into the

lesson and involved in the overall learning of the students.

My second experience in Ontario also occurs in an urban community. This experience

was in a grade 5 classroom. I feel that this teacher provided me with effective classroom

management skills. This teacher had a pledge on the wall which each student signed. The pledge

holds accountability for each student. The pledge is good for grade 5 students because they

understand the value of their signature and what it means to be accountable for things you put

your name on. This aligns with Marzano and his classroom management techniques. It is

important that teachers have control over their classrooms to ensure students feel safe and

welcome. Mastery of classroom management is a critical component of effective teaching and

learning, thus, teachers are often evaluated based on their management of the classroom

(Shamina, & Mumthas, 2018). I believe that classroom management plays a valuable role in the

overall success of the students in this classroom.

My last field experience occurs in an urban neighbourhood in Buffalo, New York. The

teacher in this classroom was excellent as she provided multiple pathways for learning for each

of her students. Unfortunately, I do not have much more to say about this classroom due to it

being cut short because of COVID-19. I was unable to have the authentic experience I would

have enjoyed because I know this teacher is a great person who I would have learned a lot from.

Overall, my observation experience has allowed me to develop and understand what I would like

to apply in my future classroom.

Classroom Application

After completing my required field experience I feel that I have taken multiple things

from each of these teachers that I can use in my own classroom. When observing classes I took

the time to look around the room, This allowed me to see the pictures on the wall, the set up of

the classroom, and the interaction of the students. I feel these all provide an environment that

encourages learning. I have also noticed skills such as the gradual release of responsibility,

modeling, and Bloom's taxonomy. I am making a promise to myself that I continue to develop as

an educator. This can be in the form of trying new techniques, attending professional

development workshops, and listening to what students tell me. I feel the classroom is a space for

everyone to learn and this includes myself as the teaching candidate. I want to be able to keep up

with the times as we move through era's in education.

I think the main thing I have learned from all these observation experiences is that

classroom management is key. It is crucial to provide students with a warm welcoming

environment that promotes learning. The main theorist I am familiar with when it comes to this

is Marzano. He has a book titled "Classroom Management That Works". It is full of great ideas

that deal with managing the classroom. One of the main strategies I take from his book deals

with establishing group norms. Any group that meets regularly to work together needs to identify

a set of norms or ground rules that will help a group do its work and discourage behaviours that

interfere with a group’s effectiveness (Marzano, R, 2003). It is important to establish norms so

that everyone involved understands what is expected from them. It also provides a sense of

comfort for each person because they know what to expect. This can come in the form of

classroom rules or a pledge to live by while in the classroom. I also see myself implementing

modeling into my classroom.

When it comes to modeling I feel I will place an emphasis on the I do, we do, you do

method in the classroom. This starts by myself working through a problem, followed by myself

and the class working through a problem, ending with the students working independently

through a problem. This is also seen as the gradual release of responsibility. I feel this is an

effective teaching methods because it gives time for questions to be asked throughout the

process. This deals with the gradual release of responsibility which is associated with Vygotsky

and his theory of the zone of proximal development. As previously mentioned, the zone of

proximal development allows for the greatest amount of student learning to be achieved.

Vygotsky believes that this occurs when people are paired with those who are more

knowledgeable and skilled (Cherry, 2020). In the classroom this occurs through a teacher student

relationship whereby the teacher builds on the students prior knowledge through scaffolding.

I see myself using Bloom's taxonomy when it comes to providing objectives for my

students. This is something I have been exposed to throughout these observation experiences. I
feel that Bloom's taxonomy is simple and provides attainable objectives for students. This

enables the taxonomy to address practical issues which are at the core of any educational

experience (Sideeg, 2016). Bloom's taxonomy can be used when developing lesson plans to

ensure both myself and the students stay focused on the task at hand. It provides simple and

understandable words that will guide student success.

Overall I believe that classroom management plays a very important role in the overall

success of the students. I will strive to provide the students in my class with an environment that

is welcoming and supportive in order to encourage learning. I am thankful for all of the teaching

professionals I have worked with through my journey because I feel they have all provided me

with something to take into my future classroom. These educators have allowed me to develop as

both a human being and an educator. It places an emphasis on my readiness to become an

education professional.

Philosophy of Education

Introduction

I am excited to share my teaching philosophy with you, the reader because it combines

my personal beliefs with my educational beliefs. I want to remind you that this is not set in stone

and I plan to adapt and change as my students do. My philosophy is built around some

educational theorists such as John Dewey, Howard Gardner, Robert Marzano, and Lev

Vygotsky. I will take you through the various sections and align them to my philosophy of

teaching. I believe that a teacher performs best as a guide to the students learning rather than a

direct source of information. It is up to the student to seek their own interests and positive

working habits. It is the educators job to provide the student with the best opportunity to succeed

through forms of support and encouragement. I place a major emphasis on the fact that each
student has different skill sets and ways to learn. This aligns best with my equity over equality

form of teaching. I strive to teach each student the way they need to taught and accommodated

for, rather than teaching each student equally. I also have a firm and fair approach to teaching.

The rules and expectations I have will be fair to both the students and myself, but I will be firm

when it comes to applying these expectations. My goal is to provide each student with a fun and

welcoming learning environment that allows them to develop into brighter people who make

smart decisions when it comes to their lifestyle choices, ultimately leading to a successful future.

The School

The mission of the school should be to provide each student with a positive, safe, and

enjoyable learning environment that strives to increase the future potential of all learners. We

live in a world where we are challenged to do our best each time. The school affects the society

in which it is found because the educational system ultimately reflects the surrounding society

based on its norms, traditions, and education levels. In other words, a higher economic society

will most likely have a higher funded school. School is a home away from home because most

people spend a lot of time here. It should be welcoming, fun, and educational.

The Curriculum

When it comes to what should be taught in schools I feel we should place an emphasis on

math, the arts, reading, science, and Phys-ed. Students at a younger age need to be exposed to

multiple subjects in order for them to remain creative and develop interests. Math is important

because it is used in everyday live, same with reading. Phys-ed allows students to remain active

and in good health. The arts allows students to be creative through musical and artistic

expression. Science is also surrounding us each day and it is important to be knowledgeable and

aware.
 Learning

I believe that learning takes place most effectively through doing. This supports John

Dewey's pragmatist theory. I will allow for hands on approaches for each of my students

throughout lessons. This will give them an authentic experience to learn from. Dewey thought

that schools and classrooms should be representative of real life situations, allowing children to

participate in learning activities interchangeably and flexibly in a variety of social settings

(Williams, 2017). Currently in education we are moving towards a system where students have

more needs than usual. It is becoming more difficult for each teacher to hit all of these needs

during each lesson. The current budget cuts is a problem in education due to the lack of help in

the classroom. I also support Vygostky and his zone of proximal development because I believe

this where the greatest amount of learning takes place.

The role of technology in education today is becoming increasingly more popular

because I think it does a good job in meeting the diverse needs of the student. We can have

students on their own individual tablet working on different things. For example if a student

needs math help they can be on a math app, while if a student needs language help they can be

on that app. It is definitely a benefit to education. I also believe an emphasis should be placed on

Howard Gardner and his theory of multiple intelligences. Educators should be able to develop

assignments and activities that provided are associated with the multiple intelligences.

The Learner

I would like to work in the Elementary age group of education. I am not too picky when

it comes to the age group. I have always said the younger the better but I am not 100% set on

that. I would be more than willing and proud to educate any age level. When it comes to the

responsibility of the student in the learning process I feel that they are accountable for all of their
work. It is the job of the educator to provide the student with the opportunity to succeed. It is the

role of the student to take the information and use it to the best of their abilities.

Assessment

I believe that with the increasingly diverse classrooms it is my duty as an educator to also

provide different forms of assessment. If a student struggles to write a paper in regards to their

understanding towards how plants grow, but can draw a picture instead it still highlights their

ability to understand the concept. I feel that formative assessments should have a higher

emphasis than summative assessments because some students can struggle when it comes time

for a quiz and forget concepts. Formative and summative assessments are both necessary. The

significance of effective assessment in higher education for enhanced learning outcomes and

student development is well established across the literature (Kaur, Noman, & Awang-Hashim,

2017). This shows that effective assessments enhance the overall learning outcomes for students.

Classroom Management

I feel that classroom management is the first thing an educator should focus on when it

comes to their classroom. Providing a welcoming and nurturing environment is essential to the

learning success of students. Before any learning can take place the teacher needs to set the

expectations and guidelines for the classroom. The book "Classroom Management That Works"

by Robert Marzano (2013) is a book that I will hold onto because it offers many tips and

strategies for managing the classroom. Without proper classroom management I do not think

much learning would take place. Teachers need to place an emphasis on procedures, rules,

guidelines, and discipline within the first week of school.

 The Teacher

The necessary educational background for teachers should involve a completion of

teachers' college and the necessary exams. I know some people argue that physcology should be

associated. I think that there are many good people who would make excellent teachers but do

not have the educational background to attend teachers college. I believe that teachers should

also have multiple volunteer experiences outside of education that highlight their skills and

willingness to work with children. A criminal background check is also a necessity.

When it comes to the most important personality and professional characteristics I

believe that teachers should be confident and caring while also having a willingness to learn for

themselves. In education the teacher should seek the help of fellow educators when necessary

and not be embarrassed about it. I also believe teachers should be goal centric and organized due

to the amount of planning that goes into the profession. I feel like teachers must also display the

ability to use multiple competencies such as planning, instruction, and assessment. These can be

expanded further into technology, accommodations, and classroom management.

Resume

The following is layout of my professional resume that highlights my educational

backgrounds and volunteer experiences that have shaped my path towards becoming an

educational professional.

[Back to Table of Contents]

BRANDON PORGA
 78 Wellandvale Drive. Welland, Ontario. L3C 7C6
Mobile: 905-788-4510 Home: 905-788-3014 Email: [email protected]

EDUCATION
Bachelor of Recreation and Leisure Studies with Major. 2014-2018
Focus in Community Recreation.
Brock University. St. Catharines, Ontario.

Master's of Education. 2019-Present

Focus in Elementary Education.
Medaille College, Buffalo, New York.

WORK EXPERIENCE

On-Water Attendant April 2018-Present

City of Welland, Welland, Ontario
 Perform on water maintenance duties to guarantee event success
 Use professionalism to assist athletes to ensure their satisfaction
 Contribute to the set up and take down of event materials
 Work collectively with co workers to promote an enjoyable working environment

Line Cook. March 2014-April 2017

IHOP. Niagara Falls, Ontario.
 Make decisions based on guests expectations, safety procedures, proper food
handling, and restaurant guidelines.
 Gained the ability to work in a fast paced environment by completing multiple
orders in a timely manner.
 Acquired skills to listen and follow direction by learning the menu and making
food correctly.
 Work collaboratively with other employees as a team.

Food Services Department July 2013-September 2013

Marineland, Niagara Falls, Ontario.
 Delivered exceptional customer service.
 Promptly reported complaints to members of the management team.
 Met customer needs and effectively resolved food or service issues.

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Student Helper
St. John Bosco Catholic School. Port Colborne, Ontario
 Guide students with learning by asking questions and giving direction
 Assist the classroom teacher through lesson planning and marking
 Promote a healthy working environment
Assistant Coach: Lacrosse. March 2017-Present
Notre Dame College School. Welland, Ontario.
  Enhanced leadership skills by coaching players through drills and games.
 Report to the head coach and follow direction.
 Teach players new skills through mentorship.
 Perform in a professional manner and represent the school.

Assistant Coach: Para-Boccia Ball September 2017-April 2018

Brock Niagara Penguins. Niagara Children's Centre. St. Catharines, Ontario.
 Assist with planning practices along with the head coach to help students with
disabilities develop skills
 Facilitate practices with the assigned athlete for the day.
 Develop a fun filled environment to help keep athletes engaged.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
High Five Training October 2016
Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario.

WHMIS Training June 2013

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Canadian Lacrosse Coaching Certificate March 2018

Mississauga, Ontario

CLUBS & MEMBERSHIPS

Welland Generals Jr. B Lacrosse April 2011-Present
Welland, Ontario.

Croatian National Home November 2014-Present

Welland, Ontario

AWARDS
Most Valuable Player Summer 2015 & 2016
Welland Generals Jr. B Lacrosse, Welland, Ontario
 Awarded for exceptional leadership on and off the floor
Grant Writing
 Basic proficiency in the grant writing process
 Written grant was selected as winner during class assignment

SPECIAL SKILLS
Computer Knowledge
 High proficiency in Microsoft Office

REFERENCES

Available Upon Request

Conclusion

This concludes section two of my MSED Elementary portfolio. I hope that it has

continued to build on everything from section one. In section two I started by introducing the

overall section and what you as the reader should expect to see. I then moved into my

educational experiences which was highlighted by Coach B and my experience in a grade 12 law

classroom. Moving through my work experience I highlighted how my time spent in a kitchen

has allowed me to develop skills that translate well into the teaching environment. I also

explained how my coaching experience has allowed me to spend time working with children and

parents. I placed an emphasis on my volunteer experience in a school prior to starting the MSED

program at Medaille. It allowed me to gain a sense of understand and a feel for becoming a

professional educator. My school observations have allowed me to work with some amazing

educators. I have taken many things from these observations that I plan to implement in my

future classroom. I discussed my philosophy of education and went through the many

components that make up my views on education. My resume is provided for you to look

through. In section three I will display my artifacts that highlight my accomplishments and focus

on my ability to display the multiple teaching competencies that a teacher must possess.