Ms. Emily's Big Vision and Goals
2013-2014 School Year
Vision for Classroom Culture
“Education is a natural process carried out by the human individual, and is acquired not by listening to words, but by experiences in the environment.” Maria Montessori
Warmth and Positivity
Exploration and Creativity
Excitement and Persistence
What this will look like: The classroom will be organized in a manner that is inviting to children and families. Each center will be inviting and it will be clear what children can explore there and what they can do. Children will explore in centers independently and will know/understand how to constructively engage with centers without needing extensive teacher direction. Teacher's Language will most often include positive, provoking questions such as, "what do you think?" and "What can we create with these materials?" What do you think will happen if..." etc. It will also include specific and honest praise for each child as they learn and grow, such as, "I like the way you tried again and never gave up! You did a fantastic job" and "That was a really creative way to do that. I am proud of you." Student's Language include language that indicated positive approaches to learning such as "I have an idea of how we can use that" or "I did it!" "I decided to work on this today because I.." "It didn't work yet, but I am going to try.."
How: Teacher will put dedicated time into planning the classroom environment and each center for every unit during the school year. As the teacher establishes routines in centers and other activities she will exemplify positive language and encourage each student to explore and create and praise their efforts. Students will begin to feel safe. Teacher will encourage students to share ideas with other students, the other teacher staff and their families. Teacher will model an attitude of exploration and positivity through each activity, as though she too is discovering things for the first time.
Academic Achievement Goals
Kindergarten Readiness Goals:
Family Involvement Goals
Every family will attend at least ONE parent involvement/ achievement gap workshop per year. Teacher will provide plenty of notice and clear information about these meetings as well as incentives when necessary.
Every family will complete and return at least 3 homework learning logs per month. Families will feel a connection to homework longs and understand their importance. Teacher will offer clear procedures, reminders and incentives.
Personal/ Professional Goals
Steady, Consistent Effort:
I will stay organized and on top of weekly responsibilities. I will be intentional about planning time to check on and meet different responsibilities.
I will strive to always return phone calls, emails, and other queries in a timely manner (24-48 hours). I will hold myself accountable as part of the team at my site and as part of the corps at TFA. I will share support, ideas and bring a positive perspective when needed. I will respect the people working around me, speak well of them at all times and approach all relationships with a generosity of spirit.
Family Relationships:
I will be intentional about planning time for my family relationships. I will have a weekly date night with my husband as well as reading time every night with the baby. I will make it a point to make sure the people I love the most know that even though I am busy, I love and appreciate them.
UNLV:
I will seek to turn in all assignments on time and have above average attendance. I will strive for As in all of my classes and be proactive about any issues or questions that arise during the semesters. I will finish all of my classes and graduate with my masters degree by August 2014.