Developing as a professional educator
Growth Goal
During my final year of induction my goal was to be mindful of students circumstances and to allow these circumstances to inform the way in which I approach/ discipline/redirect behaviors. Teaching at the secondary level has opened my eyes to the different home situations that students may face. I am more aware and patient because of this. I am proud of myself for allowing myself to go with the flow of situations I did not have control over. Many students, once they realized they could talk to me about their personal life, began to open up and that helped me to understand their behaviors better.
Staying Connected
In staying connected I am going to continue to attend team meetings so we are all on the same page with our PE program. Communicating with my colleagues, asking for advice and tips to improve myself as a teacher. As a team we develop a annual schedule for units. We are able to plan ahead so we are orgnized throughout the school year. We attend PD meetings every other Monday and attend staff meetings on Wednesday's to discuss our lessons and planning.
Future steps
I plan on maintaining my focus goals in my future years ahead of teaching. I felt that focusing on one goal at a time made it manageable and attainable. I felt less stressed and more organized focusing on short term goals rather than focusing on my long term goal. I feel that doing this will help me sustain the energy it takes to be passionate about my students learning and my teaching ability.
My Advice
Some advice I would share with a new teacher would be:
-
Classroom management does not happen over night. It takes hard work, time and patience.
-
It's ok to reteach a lesson.
-
It's ok to make mistakes. If you do own up to it.
-
Let student's ideas inspire your lessons.
-
Students are your best resource (sometimes).
-
Most importantly, have fun and laugh with your students.
"YOU'RE A ROCKSTAR"
- Shawna Patterson
