
Teacher, Educator, Blogger, Professional Development Coordinator, National Board Facilitator
Portland, Oregon Area

Teacher, Educator, Blogger, Professional Development Coordinator, National Board Facilitator
Portland, Oregon Area
Philosophy of Education
I have a lifelong commitment to learning and strive to share this attitude and challenges with my students. Education opens us to self-understanding and gives us a base to reach out in new directions. It is my belief that all students can learn and can learn to love to learn.
I incorporate both “big picture,” practical approaches and specific, “in the moment” approaches in my teaching methods. I endeavor to assist the individual student to develop good analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating skills: to put into practice the presented material both in and out of the classroom. For me, there is a sense of satisfaction in presenting ideas that catch the imagination of my students.
My goal as a teacher is to inform and challenge individuals. My teaching style offers a safe environment in which to explore new options and perspectives. I encourage my students to really think so they leave my classroom with a greater view of themselves and the world.
I was drawn to education as a way of helping youths find success in school and their lives. The secondary school years are important times in the lives of students. It is during this time frame that many will find their directions in life. I believe I can be instrumental in assisting students to create, and achieve, healthy pursuits. I also see myself as a good role model and interact well with students.
I work well as a team player and love to work with others who see their role as impacting the lives of students both academically and socially. This is why I am a teacher and this is my driving force.
Travis A. Wittwer, M.Ed., NBCT
wittco.gmbh@gmail.com
http://portalsso.vansd.org/portal/page?_pageid=213,1710435&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL
http://jefferson.vansd.org
The Role of Technology in Education
Educational Leadership
Professional Growth Workshops (PLCs)
Writing/Reading Student Workshops
State Test Awareness
(Privately Held; 501-1000 employees; Media Production industry)
August 2008 — Present (1 year 5 months)
Writing a weekly column on commuting by bike as a family. My specific niche: commuting the 3 kids by bakfiets (a bike with a box in the front--huge).
(Education Management industry)
April 2008 — Present (1 year 9 months)
Blog on current educational issues and classroom adventures. Hired for my awareness of how to use technology as a means of communication to further education awareness. Hired because of my experience in the classroom and that I am a Nationally Board Certified teacher.
(Educational Institution; 1001-5000 employees; Higher Education industry)
March 2006 — Present (3 years 10 months)
Provide facilitation support to teachers pursuing National Board Certification. Provided through an in-person cohort as well as online.
(Education Management industry)
2008 — 2009 (1 year )
(Education Management industry)
September 2004 — June 2007 (2 years 10 months)
Thomas Jefferson Middle School, Vancouver, WA, 98685
Principals: Marianne Thompson (P), Doug Hood
2004-2007 English/Language Arts 7th and 8th Grade
*Taught extended day writing class (students below standard)
*Facilitated student teacher
*Created a culture of success for the state assessment
*Organized and ran a Literacy Focus class (students below standard)
*Helped to set up the new school philosophy and programs
(Education Management industry)
September 2000 — June 2004 (3 years 10 months)
Gaiser Middle School, Vancouver, WA, 98665
Principals: Betty Roberts (P), Doug Warner (AP), Wendi Russell (AP)
2000-2004 7th Grade
*Created and taught the Transition Program for 7th grade students
*Active member of the school redesign program—Phase II Schools
*2000-2004 Special Education program
*Effectively increased WASL scores based on targeting school-wide needs
(Education Management industry)
January 1996 — September 1998 (2 years 9 months)
1997-1997 Physics Instructor, Skyview High School, Vancouver, WA
1996-1997 English Workshop Teacher, Battle Ground High School, Battle Ground, WA
Counselor/Teacher, Camp Opportunity, WA
MA , EA ELA , 2005 — 2006
MA , SPED K-12 , 1998 — 2000
BA , Teaching, English , 1990 — 1996
Took one year off, 1993
Technology, bikes, my sons.
CSTP, NBPTS, NBCT, WSU, ecoMETRO
NBCT
Teacher of the Year within my school
School Redesign Team
Class Redesign Team
VIP
Honor Roll, Dean's List