Standards 6 & 7: Engages With the Community Outside the Classroom
Engaging with resources outside of the classroom in order to help your own classroom run smoothly is vital in order to minimalizing issues within the classroom. This not only means parent contact, in both instances of positive and negative behavior, but also using programs such as professional development and getting involved with extra-curricular activities. The first abstract is an agenda from a professional development day that instructs teachers on interacting with parents in a positive manner. At staff meetings and on professional development days, there is often a focus on presenting oneself well to peers as well as parents, and keeping them informed as to what is going on the classroom. Cass Tech encourages the use of teacher websites that keep parents involved and list the daily lesson plans, to keep an open door as to what is going on in your classroom. Many parents, as well as students, utilize this tool. I have also been involved with extra-curricular activities by being involved with the Improv Club. The Improv Club meets at least once a week after school in my room to practice Improv strategies and plan their own events. Working with an after-school group has allowed me to get to know the students so much better and connect to them on a more personal level, which is beneficial for both student and teacher alike. These connections have helped my teaching strategies improve and given students a more open avenue to express what they enjoy doing to learn and how they learn best. Being involved with this particular after-school group has been the most positive experience while I’ve been at Cass Tech.
Artifact 1: Professional Development Agenda
Artifact 2: Improv Club