My name's Joe Ticar, and I'm a Teacher Candidate at the University of Toronto Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), with a focus on Business Studies and English at the Intermediate/Senior levels. I have a professional background in communications and public relations, specifically social media, graphic design, strategic planning, and event planning/coordination. I'm also a freelance photographer, with my work having appeared in print and online publications across Canada, including Mercedes-Benz Magazine, Mercedes-Benz Scene and Archenemy Magazine. As a side gig, I'm the copyeditor for Suitless Pursuits, a website that showcases people who follow their passions outside of their 9-5 jobs. Check it out at http://www.suitlesspursuits.com/
I'm located in Toronto, but I was raised in Brampton. I'm decent at speaking Tagalog, and I'm currently trying to improve my spoken Japanese

On teaching: Philosophy and practice

"For what are we born if not to aid one another?"
- Ernest Hemingway, For Whom the Bell Tolls

My philosophy of education involves the development of a safe space where students can trade ideas and learn in a welcoming community. With the understanding that every learner is different, I strive to ensure that each student has the opportunity to succeed by using differentiated instruction and culturally responsive teaching methods to develop a positive rapport and an environment of mutual respect. With this approach, I strive to help students develop a drive for academic excellence and to provide a foundation for growth into compassionate and informed global citizens. That said, my teaching style can best be described as proactive and caring – I constantly seek to address any challenges that my students are having before they become serious issues that can become obstacles to learning.