My education, practice, and beliefs lie in a Proficiency-Based system. As I teach and work to achieve more equitable lessons for all students, the ideals of a proficiency based system help guide me towards a structure that ensures equitability and effective practices. The following are a few important aspects in a proficiency based system.
There are clear expectations for learning.
Students are challenged, believed in, and supported to reach their highest potential.
Students learn best with clear cycles of practice, feedback, assessment, and reflection.
Student progress is collected, measured, and reflected upon to guide future instruction.
Students are empowered by choice in their learning and assessments.
Creating an equitable environment ensures that everyone receives what they need to be successful. This includes differentiation, accommodations, and/or modifications. In order to do this, teachers need to get to know their students as well as create assessments for all learning styles and abilities allowing students to show what they know.