Long term Goal - Induction
How can I effectively build a safe and engaging environment for all students.
What are your areas of strength? This year I feel that my area of strength utilizing resources and my knowledge of/relationships with students to effectively work towards creating an environment that is safe and engaging for my students.
Where are your opportunities for continuous improvement? This year I feel that I've really come to terms with the fact that this and my other goals are goals that I will have to continually work on. There is never a point where everything is perfect and nothing more needs to be done. In short my goal is a continuous one. I will continually adapt and grow in order to be the best educator I can be.
Long term Goal - Beyond Induction
Actively engaging in the special education community and learning new methods, strategies, and ideas.
Why have you identified this as a need or interest? My students are each unique and the strategies that worked with previous students may not always work. It is important for me to connect with other educators to share ideas and learn different strategies to support my students. As my school grows I have found that our students are representing a wider range of disabilities and challenges. It would be imprudent of me to just rely on community knowledge when working with my students,
What actions will you take? I will continue to participate in professional development and look into joining professional communities. I will strive to find funding sources so that I will be able to take part in paid training opportunities.
How will you assess goal attainment? I will assess my progress towards this goal based on the progress my students make toward reaching their goals and by the number of different strategies I learn.
What actions can you take to remain a connected educator throughout your career? Participating in professional development and joining professional communities.
What can you do personally and professionally, to sustain the energy it takes to be passionate about students, teaching, and learning? Embrace the little joys in teaching! In order to do this I track my and my students progress. Without tracking it can be hard to 'see the forest for the trees.'
What advice do you have for new teachers entering the profession? Build relationships with your students. Strong relationships improve student engagement, classroom management, and will encourage your students to take academic risks.