Artifact # 12
Context: I view professional development as a clear extension of my responsibilities as a Reading Specialist It is critical to stay abreast of current research and educational trends. I constantly reflect, question, refine, engage in dialogue and revise the pedagogy of my practice. I enjoy sharing the 'discoveries' that I encounter in the classroom with colleagues.
Recently, one of my parents said "you hold my son's brain in your hands." Initially I was overwhelmed at the implications of this statement and the inherent responsibilities. However, I feel the same way when I entrust my own children to their teachers each morning. Teaching is an 'awesome' responsibility, yet infinitely rewarding as I learn from those same children who cross the threshold into the classroom each morning.
Alignment
E: Professional Development and Leadership. The candidate engages in continued
professional development and provides leadership at the classroom, school, and
community levels, and within the profession. Several times a year I
ask students in my classrooms to reflect and provide input on my teaching
practice. This guides future planning and models of instruction. I
serve on several school committees and am actively involved in school-wide
planning efforts. Relative to language remediation of dyslexic students,
I have presented at several conferences and in-service workshops.
The model I developed over several years for a Multisensory Spelling Program
has been implemented at two schools Kindergarten - fifth grade.
Alignment C: Research: The candidate uses research to examine and improve instructional effectiveness and student achievement. After attending a conference, visiting a classroom or participating in a workshop, I often try to infuse these new ideas into the classroom as they seem to 'fit.'. This keeps my teaching multi-faceted and responsive to students' revolving needs.