In response to my ratings, specifically the components in which I have been rated Developing, I consistently work through a cycle of reflection, learning, & action planning in order to help further my practice and grow as an educator. As indicated by these three recent observation reports, my cycle of reflection and action planning has proven to be an effective strategy that has enabled me to grow & excel in the areas in which I once struggled.

APPR TEACHING OBSERVATION HIGHLIGHTS:

• In the area of 2D - Managing Student Behavior, you will notice that this component on my MOTP tracker indicates an area in which I need work. Proudly, as per my last observation by Ms. Finn in March 2019, I earned an Effective rating as I have shown significant growth and earned an Effective rating in that area.
  • As noted by the observation report, our classroom system of managing student behavior revolves around a consistent system of rules & expectations, positive behavior reinforcement, & mutual respect between teachers & students that has worked to further our student's learning & create a optimal learning environment more than any other year before.
• In the area of 3B - Using Questioning & Discussion Techniques, I was rated Developing in December 2018, but was rated Effective recently by my Principal - in her most recent observation.
  • I have really set a focus on this area given that one of our goals as a school is Academic Discourse. In order to improve my instruction, my co-teacher and I really put into place strong protocols and set high expectations for our students when it comes to group and partner discussion as well as behavior management overall. Our questioning stems from our essential questions from our unit & follows a scaffolded approach, which allows all students access to the information and learning process.
• In the area of 3C - Engaging Students in Learning, I worked my way from Developing in October 2018 to Effective in December 2018 & March 13.
  • This component has also been a area of importance for me given that one of our other goals as a school is developing cohesive instruction. For me, this means students are actively learning and not just hands-on but "minds-on" while engaged in culturally relevant, appropriately leveled cognitive challenges. To meet this professional goal, I worked with my MSQI coach to adjust our curriculum and choose culturally relevant and engaging texts and content that would draw my students into the learning. Furthermore, each lesson plan was tailored to the needs and strengths of OUR KIDS.
• In the area of 3D - Using Assessment in Instruction, I worked my way from Developing in October 2018 to Effective in December 2018 & March 13.
  • Part of cohesive instruction is also planning units & lessons that begin with the end in mind, working backwards, and constantly checking for understanding. Adjustments are made based on our assessments, both formative and summative. Students are then grouped strategically based on our findings to ensure optimal learning success & efficient teaching.