My success as a teacher comes from seeing my students be successful.  When I work with students, my driving question is always, "what will the student take away from this?" I seek to expand the cultural capital of my students by exposing them to engaging and relevant content. I base my assessments in the Zone of Proximal Development model by Lev Vygotsky and scaffolding their learning. I push my students to set personal goals and refocus as needed. I also recognize that the most important application of learning happens beyond the classroom. I help my students to learn how to find books, act outside of school, develop an interest in the arts for life, and know how to find performances on their own. I hope they develop strong character off-stage, and I encourage them to take ownership of their learning.