Teachers demonstrate professionalism through ethical conduct, reflection, and leadership.
ELEMENT A: Teachers demonstrate high standards for professional conduct.
As a student teacher, it is important to stand out and look extra professional. During my time at Cache La Poudre Elementary and Middle School, I made sure to fit a consistent wardrobe to help suggest focus and professionalism. The attire is shown through my Torsh Talent Videos. Also, I have been furthering my professional development by reading the book, Classroom Management for Art, Music and P.E. Teachers by Michael Linsin. This has allowed me to refine my influence, purpose, and resiliency.
ELEMENT B: Teachers link professional growth to their professional goals.
Being a part of my community has been and always will be an important goal in my life. I have done many years volunteering as a Wyldlife Leader, served through AmeriCorps, and participated in CSU Art Education's service opportunities. AmeriCorps and Student Teaching has been connected through STEAM which is Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics. From my experience in AmeriCorps, I have developed multiple STEAM based projects and philosophies to bring into the classroom. By completing training during my student teaching, I am growing in my professional and teaching goals. Recently, I attended a training to serve for AmeriCorps again and it allowed me to seek endless opportunities for future STEAM learning.
ELEMENT C: Teachers are able to respond to a complex, dynamic environment.
During my student teaching, I constantly switched back and fourth from online to in person learning. Because of the COVID-19 Pandemic, there have been many obstacles going against normal, traditional learning. I have fully engaged with Element C because of this past year in general. I have dealt with school wide switches and individual student situations that kept me on my feet when providing in person and online material. Through the dynamic environment, Google Classroom has been the stable foundation for both set of students. On Google Classroom, I provide the assignments, resources, and extra practice for students who want them. To remain as consistent as possible, I required students to turn everything in on Google Classroom even in person.
ELEMENT D: Teachers demonstrate leadership in the school, the community, and the teaching profession.
During my first placement at the Elementary School, I helped with Parent Pick-Up everyday after school. Although I did not get many opportunities to be involved with the school and community due to COVID-19, this was a great opportunity to present myself as a professional, engage with students outside of the classroom, and become familiar to parents. I developed confidence when directing students and parents through efficiently. It also helped me become aware of everything around me including moving vehicles, students running around, and making sure students are picked up by the right person.