Collaborative Relationships

Artifact Description: This paper was written for EDUC 225: Foundations of Teaching Bilingual/ESL Students, a course at Trinity Christian College. The familial involvement plan describes various strategies and activities for connecting with parents/guardians/caregivers in a Bilingual/ESL classroom. It emphasizes the importance of fostering relationships with linguistically and culturally diverse parents and engaging them in their children's education. The plan includes communication methods, in-class activities, community involvement, and ongoing support to ensure that parents feel welcomed and valued as partners in their children's learning journey.

IPTS Connection: This paper demonstrates that I "understand the benefits, barriers, and techniques involved in parent and family collaborations" (8D) and that I "establish respectful and productive relationships with parents or guardians and seek to develop cooperative partnerships to promote student learning and well-being" (8Q). The paper shows this by outlining specific actions to engage parents in the classroom, create a collaborative atmosphere, and involve families in activities that respect and honor their cultural backgrounds. Through outreach, bilingual communication, and community events, I intend to build a supportive environment where parents feel valued and motivated to participate in their child's education.

What I Learned: Through this paper, I learned the significance of building strong relationships with parents and families, especially in a Bilingual/ESL setting. I understood that engaging with linguistically and culturally diverse parents requires empathy, effective communication, and respect for their backgrounds. The paper helped me realize that by creating a welcoming environment and involving parents in meaningful activities, I can create a sense of community and partnership. Additionally, I learned that connecting with parents outside the classroom further strengthens the bond between home and school, promoting student success and well-being.

Artifact Description: This interview was conducted as part of EDUC 312: Middle Grades Literacy, a course at Trinity Christian College. The interview explores how a cooperating teacher integrates technology in the classroom, focusing on her approach to promoting technology knowledge and skills among students, her ongoing professional development in technology, and her classroom management techniques. The interview also delves into how she collaborates with colleagues to stay current with technology trends and how she encourages students to use reliable online resources to support their learning.

IPTS Connection: This interview demonstrates that I "use digital tools and resources to promote collaborative interactions" (8M) and that I "participate in collaborative decision-making and problem-solving with colleagues and other professionals to achieve success for all students" (8K). The interview provides evidence of these connections through the cooperating teacher's use of technology in the Spanish classroom, her collaboration with colleagues during technology training meetings, and her engagement with other professionals to enhance her technology skills.

What I Learned: Through this interview, I learned about different methods for integrating technology into the classroom and the importance of collaborating with others to enhance technology skills. I was surprised by the limited use of technology in the Spanish classroom but gained insights into how even basic technology skills, such as using reliable online resources, can support student learning. I also learned about the significance of creating a cell phone policy that promotes student responsibility. I also realized the value of ongoing professional development in technology and the use of digital tools to promote effective classroom management and enhance student learning.

Artifact Description: This interview with an ELL teacher was conducted as part of EDUC 341: Methods and Materials for Teaching English Language Learners, a course at Trinity Christian College. The interview explores various aspects of teaching English Language Learners (ELLs), focusing on curriculum development, cultural integration, technology use, and data-driven instruction. It provides insights into the teacher's collaborative approach, including interactions with families, and her efforts to create an inclusive and effective learning environment for ELL students.

IPTS Connection: This interview demonstrates that I "understand the benefits, barriers, and techniques involved in parent and family collaborations" (8D). The interview highlights these connections through the teacher's approach to engaging with parents and families, adapting lessons to accommodate cultural backgrounds, and fostering collaborative relationships. 

What I Learned: Through this interview, I learned the significance of collaboration with parents and families in an ELL classroom. The teacher's focus on creating culturally inclusive lessons and accommodating different backgrounds showed me the importance of parent and family collaboration in education. This interview helped me understand that successful ELL teaching requires a holistic approach that values cultural diversity and collaborative partnerships.

Artifact Description: This interview was conducted as part of EDUC 454: Student Teaching Seminar: Contemporary Issues, a course at Trinity Christian College. The interview explores the hiring process within educational institutions, focusing on insights from an experienced school principal. It provides an overview of the application process, interview procedures, and key traits sought in new teachers. 

IPTS Connection: This interview demonstrates that I "understand schools as organizations within the larger community context" (8A) and that I "understand the collaborative process and the skills necessary to initiate and carry out that process" (8B). The interview illustrates these connections through the administrator's explanation of the multi-round interview process, involving various stakeholders, and the emphasis on collaborative teamwork in the school environment. The interview also touches on the broader context of schools, including the importance of fostering positive relationships with colleagues and the community.

What I Learned: Through this interview, I learned the complexities of the hiring process within educational institutions and the collaborative nature of school operations. The administrator's insights into the interview procedures, desired traits in new teachers, and advice for new teachers demonstrated the importance of teamwork and interpersonal skills. The interview provided valuable guidance on preparing for the application process, presenting a strong resume, and navigating multi-round interviews. I also learned that schools value educators who are receptive to feedback, eager to improve, and able to collaborate effectively with colleagues.