Developing a commitment to life-long learning and continually evaluating and reflecting on how one interacts with others is an essential part of being a successful teacher. I demonstrate professional learning and the highest ethical standards by participating in professional development opportunities, communicating professionally with students’ families, and by belonging to professional organizations.

Professional Development

Participating in Professional Learning Community (PLC) meetings as a student teacher helped me to further develop new teaching skills and methods for evaluating students academic performance. The specialized training I received enhanced my knowledge of RTI levels, analyzing student data, and applying research-based teaching methods.

Communicating Professionally

Another way I demonstrate professionalism is how I communicate openly and frequently with students’ families. When I began student teaching I created a letter to send home with students introducing myself. The letter was an effective way to establish positive communication with parents and guardians right from the start. I also create a weekly newsletter for parents and students that outlines the standards I will be teaching and upcoming assignments. The letter serves as a convenient study guide. It includes examples and practice exercises relating to the week’s target reading and grammar skills.

Professional Organizations

As a professional educator I am constantly striving to improve my teaching skills and strategies. I stay up to date on current teaching practices through my membership in the National Teachers Association (NEA) and National Science Teaching Association (NSTA). I also subscribe to several education newsletters such as Edutopia, Education World, and Reading Rockets.