Last year, my goals were to move my applying skills into a level of integration. This year my focus was on innovation. I wanted to take the curriculum at hand and not only create more engaging, student centered learning, but to refine this lesson to better fit the diverse needs of my students. 

Over the month of August, I will create a generalized plan for the next school year. I want to enter the next year feeling prepared, organized, and focused. I want to show my leadership skills by incorporating the skills of others on the team. This will allow them to feel included and will provide new, fresh ideas that will create a better learning experience for our students as a whole. I want to continue to use the summer to assist our team in learning new technology that can be integrated into our virtual classrooms. Although this goal is not measurable by data, I plan to informally assess myself by connecting with my team to ensure they feel confident and comfortable as they enter the coming school year. In regards to my second goal, I will create more interactive lessons that can be catered to all students using tools such as Nearpod, Jamboard, Peardeck, and Google slides. I will incorporate more planned breakout rooms to encourage peer learning, relationship building, and one-on-one time with my students who need a reteach lesson. I plan to measure this goal by collecting data from diagnostic assessments given through a quick quiz at the beginning of each topic and their overall understanding of these interactive and engaging activities

I plan to always have a growth mindset when it comes to education. I want to attend professional development courses to continue to grow in my skill set of virtual teaching. Staying connected with other educators is crucial to this journey, as their creative minds can be an inspiration. Having connections with our peers is equally as important as building relationships in the classroom. If we are willing to learn from each other, we can create an environment that welcomes a multitude of diverse learners. 

I would advise them to be confident in their skills and authority. You were hired for this job because you are qualified and able! Do not be afraid to try new activities, lessons, and methods. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Confide in your coworkers and your administrators; they are there to help you. Remember to apply the advice we give our students: it is okay to fail; we learn from our mistakes!