Joe believes that being an educator isn’t just a job and education doesn’t take place in just a classroom. He believes that education is a lifelong process that takes place at all times and in all places. He fully understands the critical role educators play in the lives of young people. That is why in 39 years of education the first question he asks himself “Is my decision the best decision for kids”? If the answer is yes, then we move forward.

Joe believes education is building relationships. That is why one of his favorite quotes by Madeline Hunter not only hangs on his office wall, but has guided his educational philosophy “kids don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”. When students know you care and that you value their opinion, they are more likely to engage and therefore your knowledge is accepted and more easily learned-a bond is made.

Joe believes education can be synonymous with safety. That is why he realizes that not only the classroom, but the entire educational system can be a student’s safety net and also provide structure. A student who feels safe can automatically increase their learning ability.

Joe knows education is not a “one size fits all” approach. He has been around town! He has educated in large, small, rural and urban settings. He understands that each student is unique in their social, economic and cultural needs. Not one strategy will work for all, so multiple learning styles need to be incorporated to learn more quickly and be more successful.

Joe knows what value a good educational instructor plays in the lives of students and teachers. It was effective teaching strategies and confidence in his own abilities by his own high school social studies teacher and wrestling coach that had him thinking of an educational career.

Joe knows Joe! The educator in his life that influenced Joe the most was his dad Joe! His dad taught him to never give up on his dreams and just like Dad, Joe never gives up on doing what’s best for kids!