Presence is the "P" in AGAPE, which is the Lasallian framework that St. Mary's uses for developing the inner life of a teacher. I see presence as what a teacher uses to develop a relationship with their students. It has to with how a teacher is connected to their inner-self with a sense of purpose and confidence. A teacher with presence works to help their students discover their own inner spirit.
I think presence is appropriate for semester four in our master's program because we are starting the beginning of our school year and we have to start to build relationships with a whole new group of students. It is hard to start these relationships and I think it helps to project confidence but also be approachable. When you are present and honest with students, they begin to trust you and will be able to learn even more. As the year starts, I keep this in mind and work hard to get to know my students and help them get to know me. I let them see my inner-self and help them to think about who they are and who they want to be.
