My name is Joshua Hotchin, and I am a Teacher in the Victoria School District (#61). I completed a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) and a Professional Specialization Certificate in Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) at the University of Victoria (UVic). I am enrolled in the Master of Education (M.Ed.) program specializing in Educational Technology at UVic.

When I was in Grade 5, I had a remarkable teacher who was caring, understanding, and supportive. This was the moment I knew that I wanted to become a teacher. My goal as a future educator is to be the type of teacher who has always inspired me to be the best student and person that I can become. Personally, I struggled in my early education with multiple subject areas in school. I have experience with the struggles that some students experience on a daily basis and I have empathy and ambition in helping students learn, develop their identity, and grow individually and collectively. My goal as an educator is to be a teacher, move into administration, and in the future, be a university instructor for teacher candidates.

I believe as an educator that education should focus on the students, their interests, and their needs. As an educator, it is our responsibility to create a learning environment where students feel understood, cared for, respected, and capable of making mistakes and learning. We need to push our students and help them become self-determined learners who are capable, responsible and not afraid to push themselves to grow as individuals. Our job is also to help students find their own personal identity and give them the resources and support to help discover their interests. Every student is unique and requires different needs for success. A “one-size-fits-all” teaching style does not work and it is our responsibility as teachers to support all students. We need to create a safe environment where all students can grow emotionally, cognitively, socially, and physically with the help of their educator. 

In my personal life, I enjoy hiking, learning, swimming, and being productive. I have a one-year-old Golden Retriever who is a handful but very sweet, friendly, and fun. In the past, I was a soccer player who played locally, nationally, and internationally. Unfortunately due to injuries, I had to stop playing soccer but I am still connected with the sport through coaching.