4f: Showing Professionalism

Expert teachers demonstrate professionalism in service both to students and to the profession. Teaching at the highest levels of performance in this component is student focused, putting students first regardless of how this stance might challenge long-held assumptions, past practice, or simply the easier or more convenient procedure. Accomplished teachers have a strong moral compass and are guided by what is in the best interest of each student. They display professionalism in a number of ways. For example, they conduct interactions with colleagues in a manner notable for honesty and integrity. Furthermore, they know their students’ needs and can readily access resources with which to step in and provide help that may extend beyond the classroom. Seeking greater flexibility in the ways school rules and policies are applied, expert teachers advocate for their students in ways that might challenge traditional views and the educational establishment. They also display professionalism in the ways they approach problem solving and decision making, with student needs constantly in mind. Finally, accomplished teachers consistently adhere to school and district policies and procedures but are willing to work to improve those that may be outdated or ineffective.

Danielson, C. 2013

Artifact 4f-1

These are both emails that I had sent to my mentor teachers and their responses. This shows communication and being able to communicate with those we work with helps build our relationships and our understandings of what is happening and expected. Communication is a way that you can build that professional side of you and how to best communicate with others.

Artifact 4f-2

This is one of my observations from my professor in my senior practicum. In the section 4f, I got a proficient (3) in showing professionalism. My professor acknowledged the fact that my mentor and I have a clear and working relationship and rely on each other to work together to get the end goal. This showed me how a working relationship can work and how with the mentors that is my goal and how I can best be professional with other teachers.