The scent of hibiscus and the rhythmic crash of waves against the shore – these are the memories that cradle my earliest encounters with learning. Growing up in the Caribbean, my education wasn't confined to four walls. It spilt out onto the beaches, into the lush rainforests, and unfolded under the vast, star-studded sky. This inherent curiosity about the world, nurtured by nature's vibrant classroom, has become the cornerstone of my personal and professional philosophy as an educator.

My journey began in a humble community where resources were scarce, but dreams were boundless. Witnessing the limitations faced by many fueled a profound desire to be the change I craved to see. The inequities I observed fostered within me a deep commitment to equity and equality in education. Everyone, regardless of background, deserves the opportunity to explore, learn, and thrive.

This dedication intertwines with my love for reading and learning. I devour books like some devour mangoes – with an insatiable hunger and the joy of discovery. Each new piece of knowledge becomes a treasure to share. I believe in the power of stories, of facts that ignite curiosity, and of experiences that challenge and inspire.

Motherhood has been the most transformative experience of my life. My two boys are my constant reminder of the profound impact educators can have. Witnessing their wonder at the world reignites the spark of exploration within me. They are my grounding force, urging me to strive for excellence every day. Their laughter echoes the joy I hope to see on the faces of every student I encounter.

My approach to education is rooted in the belief that learning is a lifelong adventure, not a destination. I see myself not as a dispenser of knowledge but as a fellow explorer, guiding students to discover their passions and nurture their natural curiosity. The classroom, whether a traditional one or the vast expanse of nature, becomes a launchpad for exploration and experimentation.

Imagine a classroom where the rustling of leaves replaces the hum of fluorescent lights. Students bend low to examine the intricate patterns on a ladybug's wings, their textbooks momentarily forgotten in favour of this firsthand encounter with science. Picture them sketching the majestic mountains that frame their schoolyard, a lesson in geography unfolding before their very eyes. This is the type of learning environment I strive to create – one that fosters a love for the natural world and ignites a lifelong thirst for knowledge.

My Caribbean roots have instilled in me the importance of community. Learning doesn't happen in isolation. It thrives through collaboration, through shared experiences, and through the rich tapestry of perspectives that students bring to the table. I envision classrooms buzzing with discussions, where students learn not just from the teacher but from each other. Parents, community members, and local experts all become valuable resources, enriching the learning experience.

Equity is central to this vision. Every student deserves access to quality education, regardless of their background. This means creating a space where diverse voices are heard, where individual learning styles are recognized and nurtured, and where students from all walks of life feel empowered to reach their full potential.

My journey as an educator is one of continuous learning. I am a student of my environment, of the ever-evolving field of education, and most importantly, of my students. They challenge me to adapt, to explore new approaches, and to remain ever-curious.

I am not a finished product, but rather a work in progress, forever striving to be a better version of myself. The lessons learned under the Caribbean sun continue to guide me. Here, amidst the vibrant tapestry of nature, I discovered the joy of lifelong learning, the power of fostering curiosity, and the unwavering commitment to be the change I want to see in the world. As I stand before my students, a humble teacher with a heart full of stories and a fire for exploration, I hope to ignite the same spark within them – a spark that will illuminate their paths and guide them on their lifelong journeys of discovery.

My name is Collene L Bridgeman, a daughter of the soil, and a Special Education Teacher in the New York City Public School system, teaching all grades k-12 Special Education and 1-6 General Education. With several years of experience working my way up the education chain, I learned so much and attained so much that I am ever so eager to share and help in ways that can make the world a nicer place one little good deed at a time.