4a: Reflecting on Teaching
4a: Reflecting on Teaching
Overview:
Reflection helps teachers improve instruction, identify growth areas, and build awareness of their professional practice.
Examples of Artifacts:
Written lesson reflections
Peer observation forms
Evidence logs from self-assessment
Resources & Multimedia:
TESS Self-Reflection Tool (Arkansas DESE)
Article: Reflective Teaching Practices
4b: Maintaining Accurate Records
Overview:
Teachers manage data effectively and maintain accurate documentation related to student progress and classroom operations.
Examples of Artifacts:
Gradebook reports and parent communication logs
IEP/504 documentation tracking
Attendance records with behavior annotations
Resources & Multimedia:
Templates: Parent Contact Log, RTI Tracking Form, Assessment Binder Setup
Google Sheets: Grade Tracking Template
4c: Communicating with Families
Overview:
Communication should be proactive, two-way, and consistent to support student learning and family engagement.
Examples of Artifacts:
Newsletters, emails, or Remind messages
Logs of positive phone calls and concern conferences
Family survey data or conversation planners
Resources & Multimedia:
Templates: Remind App Message Script, Concern Conversation Outline
4d: Participating in a Professional Community
Overview:
Teachers engage with colleagues to share practices, support school goals, and collaborate professionally.
Examples of Artifacts:
PLC meeting notes or agendas
Peer observation feedback forms
Participation in school committees or as club sponsors
Resources & Multimedia:
TESS Collaboration Guide
Podcast: Educators Supporting Educators (Spotify or Apple)
4e: Growing and Developing Professionally
Overview:
Continual learning through professional development and reflection leads to teacher growth and improved student outcomes.
Examples of Artifacts:
PGP document with action steps
PD certificates or implementation logs
Reflections from training applied in class
Resources & Multimedia:
TESS PD Planning Form or Digital Tracker
Learning Bites & WinkED mini-course feedback
4f: Showing Professionalism
Overview:
Teachers act ethically, advocate for students, and comply with school/district expectations.
Examples of Artifacts:
Ethics training certificate
Documentation of ethical decision-making
Mentor logs or reflection on growth mindset
Resources & Multimedia:
TESS Examples of Artifacts (Mentor Toolkit)
Article: 5 Ways Teachers Demonstrate Professionalism
October: Begin tracking PD activities in a digital format
February: Discuss difficult parent conversations with mentors
April: Revisit PGP; prepare artifacts for end-of-year reflection
How do I stay aware of my own professional strengths and growth areas?
How am I contributing to a positive professional culture in my school?
How can I better support families in their partnership with me?