In my teaching career, I will consistently consider social justice and include social justice themes, concepts, and practice into the classroom. Social justice has evolved over the years and will continue to do so. Self-reflection is paramount in keeping social justice relevant, sound, and responsive.

My personal theory of social justice is that oppressed groups come in a variety of forms and must always be dismantled and assisted before true equity can exist. I believe that students are naturally curious and passionate, as well as capable of feeling empowerment and making change in themselves and their community. We can be growth oriented, acknowledge our mistakes and biases, while simultaneously keeping our direction in the path that is more inclusivity and equality for all. I believe students need to be exposed to windows, mirrors, and doors. Students, with guidance, can be critical thinkers and take autonomy in their education and life.

My goal for instruction is for students to understand what social justice is, how to takes place in society, and how they can become advocates for themselves and others. I want students to look at how oppression manifests in society and what can be done about it. I provide discussion topics for students to discuss and essential questions that allow students to explore their own ideas about topics and learn from their peers.

The role of the student is to learn about society and advocacy, as well as what is most important to them. They are encouraged to question everything, including the teacher. Students are encouraged to share their thoughts and opinions with the class and reflect. They are urged to follow their passions and think critically about the world and society around them. The role of the teacher is to expose students to a variety of learning opportunities and be a guide to assist them and making meaning of their learning, guide them, use a variety of instruction to effectively teach them and prepare them to enter society as adults. The teacher is not there to indoctrinate but to open the minds of students. 

As a journalism and English teacher, my students have the unique opportunity to share their writing with the school, district, and community at large. They are responsible for writing the history that will be passed down for generations and enter the historical society. My students follow the subjects and topics that interest them the most but are also important for their peers and community to learn. 

The main lesson I want students to understand is that we do not exist independently from the rest of the world, and change happens because individuals, together, made it happen.