My name is Renee Belvis, and I am an adjunct professor in the College of Education, St. Petersburg College.  I work full time for Pinellas County Schools.   I have worked as an ESOL Staff Developer (Secondary) 2013-2015.  I am now returning to the classroom and beginning a new adventure at Oak Grove MS teaching 6th grade ESOL (ELA, Reading, and Developmental classes).  I have taught ESOL at the middle school level for over 15 years.  I earned my master's degree in ESOL in 2012 from Western Governor's University.  I am ESOL Certified PreK-12, Reading Endorsed, a SIOP Certified Trainer, WIDA, and AVID trained.  I have been a member of Kappa Delta Pi since 2000.    

Educational Philosophy
I believe that all students who enter today’s classrooms are unique individuals with very different learning styles and abilities.  Therefore, teachers must be passionate about teaching and view the profession as a calling rather than job.  As professionals entrusted with the education of young minds, teachers must facilitate learning and growth. By providing a quality education to each individual in one's classroom, a teacher equips students with the tools necessary for success in life. I think it is important to establish an environment where the students feel safe to take risks and confident that they are supported.  Teachers who display warmth and compassion show students that they love and care for them.   Only then will students be motivated and inspired to learn. To achieve active learning, a teacher must demonstrate enthusiasm and express confidence in the students' abilities to learn and be successful. Teachers serve as mentors and role models to their students and must project positivity, exhibit flexibility and confidence, set high expectations, and demonstrate fairness and consistency. I believe that all students have the ability to learn and the right to a quality education. Though students have different learning styles and aptitudes they all can succeed. I am committed to be the best academic and personal role model I can be.