Mr. Mitchell Cantrell

About the Teacher/Welcome Msg

Education

• Graduated Desoto Central High School
• Associates Degree from Northwest Mississippi Community College
• Bachelors Degree from Ole Miss in Elementary Education

Experience

This is my fourth year as the head teacher. I have been an assistant teacher for 6 years prior. I have spent some time at Southaven Elementary 1st grade and Horn Lake Intermediate 5th grade for observations and additional experience. Worked 12 years in multiple grades at Trekker's afterschool and summer camp.

Bio

I am a proud employee of Desoto Central Elementary. I was properly trained and nurtured under the great leadership of Mrs. LaShannon Shepard and Mrs. Amy Bridgewater at the primary school. I am the proud husband to my lovely wife Megan Cantrell and father to my son Greyson and daughter Evelyn Claire. I attend Desoto Hills Baptist Church. I attended Ole Miss where I received my Bachelor's Degree.

I believe that the student should be at the center of the instructional process. I have an image of children as strong and capable people. The classroom is a place where the teacher serves as a facilitator and guide as the students construct their own understanding of the world around them. Although it is the teacher’s role to plan lessons and evaluate students’ progress, it is of the utmost importance to always take the children and their own unique needs into consideration. I have learned so much in my experiences and will always be indebted to my teachers Mrs. Shepard and Mrs. Bridgewater. Through them I believe in creating opportunities for students to develop to their fullest potential while developing and expanding their horizons. In order to accomplish this, there must be a welcoming, positive environment that is open and honest. When students feel comfortable at school they will surely be more engaged and responsive to class activities. I also consider it essential to be passionate and enthusiastic about learning so that the students can have the most relevant and meaningful experience.

My philosophy of education is that all children are unique and must have a stimulating educational environment where they can grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. It is my desire to create this type of atmosphere where students can meet their full potential. I will provide a safe environment where students are invited to share their ideas and take risks. I believe that their are five essential elements that are conducive to learning. (1) The teachers role is to act as a guide and a model. (2) Students must have access to hands-on activities and not just listening to me at the front. (3) Students should be able to have choices and let their questions direct my teaching. (4) Students need the opportunity to practice skills in a safe environment and have space to move. (5) Technology must be incorporated into the school day as that is the future of their generation.