Compare and contrast your Initial CSTP and your Final CSTP. What are your areas of strength? Where are your opportunities for continuous improvement? In what ways have you surprised yourself?
My areas of strength are in Developing as a Professional Educator. I am always aware of my professional integrity, responsibility,and ethical conduct. I am also good at reflecting on my teaching practices and effectiveness. A strength that I have acquired this school year is Creating and Maintaining Effective Environments. I have grown in the area of employing classroom procedures and routines for learning. As for opportunities in continuous improvement, I believe I can always improve on Planning Instruction and Designing Learning Experiences for All Students. I find I can work and improve in specifically the area of adapting instruction and curriculum to meet assessed student needs. I have surprised myself this year by managing to teach more than three different subjects and staying organized.
Professional Goal
A professional goal I have set for myself beyond induction is to finish my current doctoral program. I've always wanted to have a PHD and I am currently enrolled in a PHD program. I am currently completing the first course and I am really excited to accomplish this personal professional goal. I will assess the attainment of my goal when I finally finish my dissertation and receive a PHD in Psychology.
Connected Educator
In order to stay connected as an educator, I will attend various teacher trainings throughout the school year. I will also attend PLCs and all the department and staff meetings. I think it is also important to join a school committee such as School Site Council in order to stay connected with other staff and teachers.
Sustaining the Energy
I will sustain my teaching energy by doing the following: 1) Self-reflection, 2) Staying connected with other teachers, 3) Building relationships with students, 4) Taking time to relax with family and friends, and 5) Setting boundaries and balancing life's many challenges.
Quote
"Ms. Ortiz-Guerini's work ethic and dedication to her students is second to none." - Tony Wilson, Department Chair, Coach, and SDC Techer
Advice
Make sure you stay balanced and don't take on too many responsibilities at work and at home your first year as a teacher. Allow yourself to make mistakes because that is how you learn. Ask for help when you aren't sure about something. Make friends with a couple of teachers and keep those friendships.