Standard 9: The teacher engages in ongoing professional learning and uses evidence to continually evaluate his/her practice, particularly the effects of his/her choices and actions on others (learners, families, other professionals, and the community), and adapts practice to meet the needs of each learner.
1. The teacher engages in continuous professional learning to more effectively meet the needs of each learner.
Evidence 1: Peer Review Course, 2014 Cohort, Certificate
Description: During this course early childhood education colleagues gathered to support and learn with each other while preparing portfolios to obtain licensure.
Analysis: This course encouraged me to take a long and deep look at my teaching practices. As I have worked to gather evidence for this portfolio, I have discovered many areas of growth. I have also been able to pinpoint other areas that still require effort, learning and flexibility on my part. As I have examined my teaching philosophy, I have become and am continuing to become a more rounded and better teacher for the students in my classroom.
Evidence 2: VELI Training
Description: This training focused on building math literacy within the preschool classroom.
Analysis: This training helped to reinforce the importance of incorporating math and literacy. During the workshop we were introduced to some new books and were given some math manipulatives to aid in a deeper understanding of the written material. We were also given time to share some math activities that we had used in our classrooms. It was helpful to share ways in which the lesson worked well and areas that needed improvement. Other professionals were able to give feedback and aid in developing a more meaningful learning experience for children within our classrooms.
Evidence 3: In-Service Training, October 2014
Description: During this workshop we learned about literacy as it relates to the Common Core, and how to use the Common Core standards to make reading and writing more complex.
Analysis: Common Core is upon us. Because of this we have spent much time as a staff studying various content areas. Our principal also invited a member of our school board who has vast experience with the Common Core to come and share some thoughts regarding literacy and the Common Core. As we discussed ways to use various types of literacy materials within our classrooms, I began evaluating the way in which I introduce these tools within my classroom. I also use various observation tactics to determine how these materials are received and to plan future curriculum.
