My teaching philosophy can best be explained as a combination, with a strong backbone of essentialism.  I believe that the core subjects create a solid basis for students to explore what life will put before them.  After that I would probably be considered a perennialist, the “Great Books” can teach many fundamental lessons.  The Educator can then relate this information to current day trends and fads to make it interesting to students.  I think the teacher should be a gatekeeper of their classroom, setting a tone and pace for the learning that goes on.  At a young age students can be challenged and supported without the feeling that they are being judged.  This is the job of the Educator.  Provide a comfortable learning environment where the student feels safe to say they don’t know and get the help they need.  I do encourage discussion of a topic and would welcome questions about how these lessons will affect them in their future.  I would encourage the students to go home and share what they are learning with their parents and siblings to keep the lines of communication open between school and home.