Domain+Four

Domain IV: Professional Responsibilities

Component 4a: Reflecting on Teaching Description: One of my classes in Diagnostic Assessments in Reading/Language Arts was site-based at McCaw Elementary School where I tutored a small group of emergent readers and as a culmination of that experience, I wrote this reflection on the practices, strategies, and my pedagogy.

Artifact: [|Reflection on Diagnostic Assessments in Reading/Language Arts]

Reflection: As a student I've practiced reflection throught the entire Teacher Preparation Program. At this point, reflection has become a constant practice that guides my instruction throughout a lesson, for the next day, and for upcoming lessons. I'm always aspiring to improve my lessons and delivery. Beyond the personal reflecting, I greatly benefit from seeking out other educators to collaborate as part of my reflection process.

Component 4c: Communicating with Families Description: As a Reading Tutor/Pre-Service teacher I had to write a letter to the parents of the emergent readers using parent-friendly language to describe my reading plan for growth for their student. As a Student Teacher, I sought out parental interaction whenever parents were on campus for events, made Good News Phone Calls, participated in Parent-Teacher Conferences, e-mails, and weekly communication through a homework packet/class happenings letter.

Artifact: [|Parent Letter for Instruction Plan]

Reflection: This area of Professional Responsibilities is one that I consider a privilege. I believe that a community approach to learning serves the learner best and I appreciate the opportunity to be a part of that student's learning team. The insights I gain from parental interaction help me to know my students better and serve them more effectively. Keeping those lines of communication wide open is my goal as a classroom teacher.

Component 4d: Participating in a Professional Community Description: Throughout my time at Selma F. Bartlett Elementary School, I have participated in many school wide events to establish relationships, as a service to the school community, and to provide leadership. Some of those events include Jump Rope 4 Heart, Sock Hop, Family Fitness Night, Field and Fine Arts Day, Professional Development Days, and the Social Planning Committee for the 20th Anniversary Celebration of Bartlett Elementary.

Artifact: Reflection:Participation in these events builds a strong sense of community, approachability for students and parents toward me as the classroom teacher, and supports the culture of lifelong, integrated learning. I will continue to be actively involved in all facets of the learning community at the school where I teach.