1. Write your personal mission for the job you currently do. 2. What steps are you willing to take to make sure your students reach academic success?
185 comments:
Mr. Chris CFE
said...
My mission is directly related to state and national standards, specifically, I want to give students the knowledge to develop skills necessary for health related fitness and participation in lifelong activities. NC is fifth worst in terms of obesity in the US, that isn't good! Kids these days are unfit and don't kow how to play sports! Granted, some are and some do, but the majority are more used to playing video games than real sports. An example is when a student was telling me about a goal they scored in soccer. I was excited for him until he told me that he scored it on a video game. My own kids, when we go to relatives houses, play the WIE for hours. Are you kidding me? Uncle Chris, my nephew says, let's play WIE tennis! What? Let's go to the tennis court and play real tennis!
For question 2, I really try to show and explain to the students that I am a lifelong fitness person, and that I love to play sports. I try to give them personal experiences and examples from my life how I exercise and participate in lifelong activities. I also provide a variety of non-traditional expereinces (frisbee, double dutch, etc.) for those students who have little or no success in more traditional sports where certain students who do have experience tend to dominate.
1. Currently I am an Assistant Principal and many people I come in contact with presume I am no longer a teacher. After explaining to them the number of students (including the teachers/TAs I support)and the complex nature of my job, understand that I am STILL teaching, but my job requires so much more.
My mission in being an AP is stated generally on my webpage for RPP; Together We Can. I am simply there to support EVERYONE involved in the school (parents, students, teachers, community, all colleagues)and that's my mission. Just as a teacher, I so many little jobs that comprise my job. The one thing that sticks out in my mind is ensuring that we all extend a hand to parents/community, facilitate learning to students through supporting teachers.
2. The steps I intend to take to ensure the academic success are the following:
a. Keep the lines of communication open with everyone. I find myself coaching a lot of parents on how to talk to their child's teacher many times. The parent's first line of defense is always "I'm NOT a teacher, I can't do what you do". My response is "Well, you brought them in the world and you've gotten them this far, didn't you have to teach them something to make that progress?" This usually causes a long pause in the conversation. Parents usually want to automatically start pointing fingers at the school/teacher when things are going wrong (in their eyes), but in my conversation I ask them what they did to enhance the situation; did YOU ask for a conference instead of WAITING for an invitation, did you check your child's folder/grades periodically so that you were "in the know" with the school/child? I am not usually the one to point fingers in a conversation like this, but I make a point to cause them to reflect on their practices/involvement in the situation. I plan to continue this "step" to ensure student success because communication is the key. It is our first line of defense!
Understand, there are other ways to communicate with parents,colleagues, and the community. I feel that we as teachers need to extend a helping hand to parents, whether parents show that they are willing to take the necessary steps to ensure student success. Pender County Schools generally requires this of us all, but we at "The Rock" do it very well. We care for the students, bend over backwards to help whether required or not because we know that it is for the good of the child. It is for this reason that we update our websites weekly with little homework helper tidbits, a calendar of events(keeping parents in the know,armed to help students at home), We also, ensure that we have conferences in a timely manner (not just when a child isn't doing well). We have committed to a PARTNERSHIP with parents/community because it takes us all to educate our future. We recognize that these students will oneday be taking care of us! If we don't teach them well, then we're in BIG trouble. b. I intend also to support my fellow staff members, from the janitor to the Principal. Without OUR partnership, the students will not receive the FULL benefits they are entitled in an education. Whatever my colleagues need (within reason of course), I will help them to get it. If it's just making copies, watching a class, opening a door, providing feedback on a lesson, reminding them of upcoming events. This list could go on forever. My goal is to support and communicate with the educational environment (parents, students, teachers, TAs, etc)to ensure student achieve at their optimal level. These may be words, but I mean each and every one.
Health Fitness is a very important part of our lives. Many people do not perceive its importance until they've allowed their bodies to what I call "deteriorate" after so many years of not being fit. For so many years sports has been a main focal point for Pender County, but what about those who aren't into sports (playing one that is)? They still need to exercise to keep fit even if they are into other things. They may have musical, artistic or academic talents(the Superintendent has pushed us to push other areas for students to succeed in). My question to you is how or what do we do within our schools, to promote fitness among parents, students and teachers? I should ask also, do we begin at the school level or higher?
Fitness should be a way of life. You know how we wake up every morning with our same old routine, wash the face, etc.? Shouldn't we make fitness a part of the routine? Well of course we should. So many of us use being tired at the end of the day or having too much to do as a way out. I personally have used these as an excuse, but just like I had to take time to study to become a teacher, then to get my Master degrees, I've had to make a change in my way of life to ensure I am exercising and staying fit. It all comes down to making a decision to change and finding the time in our schedules.
amigo rpp my mission as a physical educator is to teach kids the skills and appreciation for the fun you can have when you are being physcially active.Teaching kids at such a young age makes it a little easier becuase most kids love to run and play it's when they get older that kids realize that exercising and being physically active is actually work but that work is very rewarding and very necessary.
I take step so that these kids can reach there academic achievment everyday and everyweek by planning games that will help them understand that physical activity is fun. I have also planned pe nights for the parents to come with there kids to participate but it is very discouraging when 5 kids show up out of 140 students and there 3 of there parents do not want to participate. Hey better five kids than none though.
My missionn is to be caring, loving, open minded and encouraging to all children so as to help them to grow and succeed to their highest potential. To ensure the success of the student that I have choosen to focus on I will work one on one with her in the areas she is weak in. I will meet with and work with her parents so they know what is expected of her age group.I will meet with other teachers to get fresh ideas. I will do all that I can to see this child succeed.
Hey Mr. Chris... I was thinking about the obesity. Way back when I was in school, we had PE 5 days a week 3/4 of the year. The other quarter we always had health. I can't remember seeing a lot of obese people. Now, we don't even have PE after 5th grade on a weekly basis. What can we do to change the laws? I know, this would require hiring more PE teachers. But you know what? I would rather my tax dollars go to that than pay for Joe Smith to have multiple surgeries because he is obese and must take multiple meds for his conditions. I am all for helping those in need, but let's teach these children how to fish instead of handing them a plate. (If you give a man a fish, he eats for a day. If you teach a man to fish, he eats for life.)
My mission this year is different from years before in that I am no longer in a classroom - at all. As a library assistant I feel my mission is to assist in running an efficient, organized, and clean library. As a bus driver, my mission is to ensure the students safe transport to and from school. And in my RTI group I feel my mission is to expose students to the research opportunities of the world wide web, to teach them to utilize basic technology resource (such as MicrosoftWord), to introduce completing assignments as a team, and most of all to help them realize the potential they all possess as individuals.
Mr. Chris, as someone who is not yet a parent, I appreciate your passion for the health of your students. In the midst of all the politics and being told what you have to teach everyday, it is clear that you are still aware of the needs of your students and strive daily to meet those needs.
That's a great idea to have PE Parent Nights. Have you thought about joining in with grade levels and being a part of their Parent Nights? You all could coordinate it so that you could demonstrate/speak to parents/students. Other specialists could join you as well. Or you could opt to make a presentation during PTO. I've not seen anything like that done I don't think. Specialists are important in a child's life too. Tiffany RPP
Mission - To prepare our students for kindergarten. To teach them ABC's, numbers, rhymes, sorting, etc.; all of the different things they will need to do when they begin kindergarten. Also, to teach/help them socialize with their peers, help them work out disagreements with each other, and to help them understand that they will need to learn to follow directions from other adults, not just their parents/guardians.
Steps for Student Success - To work with students in center time, circle time, outside, on the bus - wherever we are that I see as an opportunity to reinforce what we are learning in the classroom. This will help them to see that what we do in the class is useful outside of class also. I can also help the students encourage learning by having some of the students that are better at one thing to help the others that may be struggling.
Response to Mr. Chris - I agree with you that we need to get more kids interested in playing outside instead of sitting inside in front of a computer or playing a video game. We need to show them how much more fun it is to play these games in person with other people!
My mission goes beyond my title as a teacher asst. As as asst. I am here to help the teachers be able to teach, sometimes by doing some of the detail work. Bulletin boards, copies, bathroom duty, lunch and recess. Basically anything that they need me to do. I am also here to be a stable adult in the kids lives...way to many don't have that at home. But, for me...I am here because I love the kids. I can't imagine not having them in my life. So, for me it is my personal mission to love them. They know that they can always come to me for a hug, and I know that it is important for them. But the truth is that it is just as important to me. I need these kids as much as they need me.
I think that pulling kids for small groups and/or one on one is one way to help children succeed. They need alot of encouragement when they do make progress. Self confidence goes a long way with anyone, especially kids.
My mission statement goes along with Ms. Moore... It is my goal every day to brighten someones life..child or adult. So many of the children that we come in contact with here have to endure so many obstacles. It is my goal to be a positive, loving person that they know they can trust.. and can help them to be the best they can be!
Bender CFE: To provide my students with a variety of learning experiences that will meet the diverse learning styles of all my students. To make sure that each and every day all of my students are staying connected to the content material being taught. To create an environment where students will foster an intrinsic appreciation for the value of education through reading in all content areas. To help students realize their potential and make the connection that through an education they can make their dreams come true. That every child, no matter what their ethnicity, economic background or past academic achievement level, has the capability to be what ever they choose to become.
Bender CFE: To provide my students with a variety of learning experiences that will meet the diverse learning styles of all my students. To make sure that each and every day all of my students are staying connected to the content material being taught. To create an environment where students will foster an intrinsic appreciation for the value of education through reading in all content areas. To help students realize their potential and make the connection that through an education they can make their dreams come true. That every child, no matter what their ethnicity, economic background or past academic achievement level, has the capability to be what ever they choose to become.
Bender CFE: I am willing to collaborate with my colleagues to gather the most effective teaching materials in order to achieve academic success for all my students. Ex: Asking the media specialist for books needed for a research project, planning a technology lesson with the computer specialist. Also, getting enrichment lessons/material from the AIG teacher. Also, having students teach each other by pairing a lower level learner with a higher level student. To help students understand that they can make their dreams come true and become whatever they choose I would have them research a person in that line of work so that they know what it takes to achieve that position.
My mission statement is to teach my children to the best of my ability and use all resources available to me to accomplish the highest achivement and growth with all of my students.
As an educator I am willing to participate in classes at the university and locally to help my students achieve their goals. I am also willing to do researcha and collabrate with other educators to get the best answers and results for my students. Also extra training I think is necessary to take my students to the next level or education and myself to the next level of teaching and educating.
CFES My mission, as a 3rd grade teacher, is to provide rich, learning experiences to my students that are based on the NCSCOS. My goal is to make learning enjoyable, thus motivating students to become life-long learners who are intrinsically motivated.
To achieve this, I must use differentiation strategies to encourage student growth in the areas that will have the most impact on the student's education. I must collaborate with other teachers, counselors, the principals, and other colleagues for resources and strategies. I also will participate in workshops that provide strategies to help me achieve student success. Technology integration, as well as cross-curricular instruction are key elements which support my mission and student success.
To: Adams at RPP I agree with you whole heartedly. Students have so many complications in their lives these days that interfere with their learning. Sometimes school is the only safe place for them. It may be the heating/air system, a warm meal, or a kind word that makes a difference to these children. It is easy to see why learning is not the first priority for students who may be lacking in their basic emotional and physical needs. My heart breaks for those students and I wish that I as a teacher and mother could give them more...
Response to Tiffany and to Bogan: I like both of your comments, really hiting the nail on the head with the health fitness idea. i am fortunate to be able to get exercise during the day at school, kids see me and are always asking me how far did yourun (or ride), did youswim today, can I go running with you, etc. We tried for three years in a row to get a faculty fitness program going, but it kind of fell off as people got busy with the holidays. As for myself, I have recieved numerous sport and fitness grants (and always have a couple in progress), have given many workshops (even Bogan came to one on frisbee!), have contributed many articles to the Post and Chronicle, have presented at state conferences, raised thousands of dollars for Jump Rope for Heart, administered the health related fitness test, contribute regularly to the principals newsletter, send hundreds of positive referrals home, downplay videp games and promote play! All to get these students to realize the benefits of health related fitness and lifelong activity. It is a state mandate that PE is required for only one year in HS, then can be taken as an elective. There are just too many other things out there that are taking it's place. I will tell you, as Elementary PE rep for the county, you have some excellent teachers out there. Even some teachers out of the field are doing things, like the ladies here who are sponsoring Girls on the Run. Now, Tiffany, I want you to get a regular fitness program going for yourself, set a goal (a five K run?), gather some friends and colleagues together, and go for it!
CFE Sikes My mission as a reading teacher is to provide a caring environment in which all students, of all ability levels to reach their highest potential, and learn the literacy skills necessary to be successful, productive citizens.
Question Number 2 I am willing to take just about any step to make sure my students reach academic success. This requires many things on my part. Communication with parents is crucial! School and home must be on the same page in order for a student to be successful. I am always willing to meet with parents to discuss their concerns and possible solutions to problems their child may be facing. It is also important to use all of the resources available at the school. This includes EC teachers, assistants, AIG specialists and specialists. I am thrilled to have the chance to work with Mrs. Handline to get some new strategies to use with my students! Profession development will also help me help my students. Trends in education are constantly changing and there are so many new techniques that address multiple intelligences!
Adjusting my instruction is also something that constantly needs to be done to help all of my students be successful. Small groups allow me to meet the needs of all students and also help me to challenge my higher level students. We are unable to change the curriculum and the learner but we can change our methods of instruction. We must teach to all of the different learning styles. This mean differentiation in all subjects!
I love how your mission was to brighten someone's day! So many of our kids come from situations that are hard for us to imagine. Sometimes we are the only smiling faces they see! I believe relationships are key to academic success. If a student doesn't trust his/her teacher, they will not reach their full potential!
My mission is to help students develop a love for reading, a reading habit and the skills necessary to become lifelong learners.
I strive to provide all students with equal access to media resources. I work hard to ensure we have materials that 1) meet the personal interests and educational needs of students of various abilities and backgrounds, 2) supplement the NCSCOS in all curricular areas, and 3) meet the instructional needs of our teachers.
I work to encourage students to develop a love of reading and a reading habit. I plan reading programs and promotions to get kids excited about reading and focus our students and staff on books and reading.
I work with students individually and in groups to identify, find, evaluate and use information that meets their personal and educational needs. I believe these are essential skills for lifelong learning.
I believe a love of reading and the ability to seek out and use information are valuable tools that will last a lifetime.
In response to T. Moore – RPP – I liked what you said about being a stable adult in the lives of our students and I completely agree. The children need adults they can count on, who can help them grow, and guide them to becoming self confident individuals. They need to know people are watching out for them and care about them. And, I think the more loving, caring adults they have around them, the better off they will be! Again, it takes a village…
1. My mission is to create an open, inviting environment for students to experiment and experience music. I want to introduce children to all the various types of music, musical instruments, dance, and allow then to feel comfortable with self expression. Not all students are gifted in sports or academics, but perhaps music can be their place to shine.
2. I also try to use music to enhance academic growth. Music can be key to improving math skills, encourage higher level thinking skills, reinforce sight words,and understanding history and culture. I have tried to collaborate with classroom teachers on various themes such as "the science of sound" or a unit on dinosaurs. Music in the primary school is not a graded or tested subject area, but I feel it is important to use this time to enhance to core subject matter.
To Tanya House: I appreciate what you said about intrinsically motivating students to become lifelong learners. Obviously if they don't enjoy school, they will not be as successful or likely to stick with it. It is so important for them to have something that motivates them - whether it is a caring teacher, a love of reading, or success in sports or music.
My mission is to guide, teach and support students and teachers with behavior management, thus making the classroom a safe and productive place to learn and teach.
To achieve my mission, the number one thing that I have to do is develop a relationship with the student struggling with behaviors. I can not ask a student to change and take responsiblity for his actions if there is no trust or bond between us.
As I build a relationship with the student it is easier for me teach replacement behaviors and coping strategies. I am also here to support the teachers. Their job is made even more difficult having to deal with a problem student. Any support I can give them allows them to go back to their main goal of teaching.
My personal mission as "Mr. Cub Cave" is to provide students who have issues concerning their behavior with behavior modification techniques as well as increase their knowledge concerning character education. It is also my desire to decrease behavior issues school wide in the classroom setting. I want to be able to instruct students on how to make good choices as well as maintaining control of neagtive emotions while in a classroom setting.
For question 2, it is very important that students who make bad choices understand what they did wrong and how they could have chosen another avenue so that they could remain in a classroom setting to receive instruction. I really attempt to make sure students are in the classrooms receiving instruction from their teacher after their behavior has been addressed because being in the classroom is very conducive to reaching academic success.
To CFE Sikes: I so agree that relationships are key for a child to reach full academic potential. In order to achieve academic success, many students need behavior and social skills training. Negative behaviors impede learning and the learning of other students and can change the whole dynamic in the classroom.
In order for my students to be successful I have to work closely with the teachers, counselors, outside agencies and especially the parents. Parents get very discouraged and often need training and strategies to use at home.
My mission is to inspire all children to grow and develop as readers, not just for one day in May but for life...I want to ensure that they become lifelong readers and therefore lifelong learners.
In order to achieve this, I model my own love of reading and provide opportunity for students to interact with many different types of books to ignite an enthusiasm for reading within them. If that happens it helps everything else fall into place. I also want to communicate with all involved, and listen to the student so I know if the steps I am taking are effective. I would do whatever it took to help a student become a successful reader.
I agree that supporting one another is extremely important and something we often forget to do or don't take the time to do. We need to remember it takes each and every one of us, and we need to get rid of all the boundaries we put up.
Linda Eakins RPP Chapter 2 Question 1 Lifelong Educator I am an educator. I am passinate about supporting the growth and education of others-in whatever context that might be(student,parent,co-worker, or family. I believe in empowerment. In relationships with my co-workers, supervisors,and my students. I will strive to be humble,considerate,honest, kind, forgiving, and wise. Each day I will say something kind to , and about someone else; thank those who have helped me, and do something kind for someone else. I value and keep my word. In everything I do, I will be guided by my values and shall give it my interest, my enthusiasm, my passion, and most importantly, myself. I will strive, always, to encourage and support the dreams and aspirations of others, learn about others, and contribute to the betterment of my community. Question 2 The steps that I intend to take to ensure academic success is to hold myself accountable for all the above daily. In doing that I can create and warm and postive place for all around me to learn and grow. When people feel valued and appricated it inspires them to value education in and out of the classroom. This will inturn make our communities better places to live. The academic success comes much easier when it is valued by the person directly involved in the learning.
I am totally in agreement with your mission statement. I think that as educators we should always do our best to create life long learners. Even after students leave the 3rd grade it is the job of every teacher they have from that point on to do the same.
My mission statement throughout my whole career has been simple. It is: "All children can and have the right to learn!" Children come in with varied backgrounds, previous experiences and lifestyles. They come with different beliefs and ability levels. I feel my job is to take them from their current starting point/level (no matter how advanced or not as advanced)and propel them forward as far as we can go in a year. It is a growing personal education journey. I would love for all of my students to fit in the "black and white" on-grade level expectations or surpass them, but unfortnately that isn't always going to happen. But, that doesn't mean educational growth and learning hasn't occured. I try to focus on the child as an individual and take into account their overall successes (educational, personal, and social).
The steps I take to accomplish this are: following our state standard course of study and county guidelines, use research based programs and strategies to focus on weak areas for remedation or acceleration, engage in small group time, communicate with parents, and I try to make learning FUN!! Our school uses research-based programs that are mandated, I incorporate small group for one-on-one remediation/acceleration and I keep in contact with parents about our weekly curriculum. My FUN tidbit about learning that I try to incorporate daily: If you feel like you're playing and enjoying the activity, you may not even realize the hardwork you're doing or the learning that is taking place!
1. My personal mission for our students is to provide a comprehensive, standards-based course of study which will allow them to become musically literate.
2. Yes, our mission is to achieve academic success and we need to address the needs of the whole child. I will provide a variety of musical experiences designed to address the individual learning styles and intelligences. I provide hands-on experiences every day, and make lessons relevant to each child. Going back to "It takes a village"...I involve the community as much as possible, believing that our students need as much exposure to different situations as we can give them. The people in our community also need to see and hear our students to know that they are there, and just how wonderful they are. We participate in fall and spring festivals, school and community concerts and parades. I will write grants, seeking additional funds to ensure student success. I will collaborate with other teachers, parents, bus drivers, cafeteria workers and custodians.
1. My mission as an Excpetional Childrens' teacher is to provide my students will fair access to their grade level curriculum. I offer them multiple ways to learn concepts and design (and co-design) lessons that will engage and motivate them. I have high expectations for my students, and I strive for them to have ownership in their own success.
2. Steps for Student Success- Of course, communication is a key component to success of all students. I believe in, as most of us do, in contacting parents about the positive things their child is doing, not just when they are struggling. I am also willing to think outside the box when it comes to lesson organization. For example, in reading this month we are doing skill specific centers that offer peer teaching, small group instruction, independent work, and hands on learning. That may not seem "out of the box" for the younger grades, but in a regular 3rd grade classroom of 23 it takes a lot of planning, organization, and PATIENCE to manage centers. I just have to say that that is why co-teaching/inclusion is such a beautiful thing. I am also willing to go to trainings/workshops to learn new ideas and techniques that will help my students reach academic success.
To Paula K. I agree with you about using all resources possible to help your students be successful and to educate yourself to become more knowledgeable. Learning is a lifelong skill and process. Hopefully, by us being role models of this skill, it trancends to our students!
1. My mission is to carry out the needed operational strategies to fulfill the school's mission by inspiring, encouraging, nurturing and motivating each child in all aspects of life. 2. The steps I will take to make sure my students reach academic success are to maintain open communication with students, families, and colleagues. I will also participate in professional development and differentiate my lessons. J. Weiss RPP
My Mission for my students begins with meeting our county and state standards toward basic and important learning. While our concrete testing is essential, it is the higher level learning that will continue to sustain each student at his or her own ability level. Each student’s educational experience must meet a sense of relevancy for his or her world right now, and the future.
One of my goals for my students is to impart our own country's diversity, encouraging them to appreciate our differences as well as our likenesses. That awareness will hopefully develop in understanding and respecting the world’s diversity as they move through the education process, and mature. My responsibility is to not only meeting the standards of education but to teach each student how to continue the learning process through their own discovery. Education includes the ability to find information not only memorize.
Steps needed to take for achieving my mission, include collaboration, with parents, classroom staff, bus drivers, lunch staff, after school care. That communication is intended to allow me to understand the many sides of a student. My own communication with each student also gives me important information about how I need to meet needs. My professional education, to keep up with any new research that may enlighten a research-based technique for reaching learners is important.
We have all seen students who may not be getting the nutrition they need. I must make sure that breakfast is eaten either at home or school and that a snack has got nutritional value, and is not just sugar. While education needs are met, sleep is also a huge issue with a small number of families. It is these kinds of communications that need to be handled with respect for offering families proactive ideas and not criticism. To be able to work with families on their child’s academics, nutrition, sleep and exercise may be one of the most challenging but productive achievements we can accomplish, toward reaching eager learners.
My mission is to provide experiences for my students that will foster their academic, social, and emotional growth.
I believe that in order to accomplish that mission, there are many necessary steps! Communication and collaboration are probably the most important! As educators we must communicate with the parents and students in hopes of establishing a relationship that will encourage everyone's commitment. We also need to collaborate with others (administration, guidance counselor, EC, ELL, specialists, nurse, and anyone involved with that child at the school level) to develop the most effective goals and strategies for that student. It also takes very careful planning, assessing, reflection, and creativity to create lessons/activities that will promote success in all areas. I must grow as a teacher if I expect my students to show growth. Therefore, I must continually seek to improve my skills. Above all, I believe that I must give my students a reason to want to be successful. I have to let them know that I believe in them even if no one else in their lives does.
To CBishop @ RPP I agree with you 100%. We always need to keep in mind where our students begin. All that we can truly expect from our students is that they try their hardest and continue to make growth. We can't expect all students to end up at the same place when they have all started from different places. We have to treat them and teach them as the individuals that they are!
I feel my mission is to make learning as real and enjoyable an experience I can. To help my students find the connection they each have to the topics we are learning and see the relevance it has for them, personally. Also, I want to equip my students with the skills they need to be motivated and open to learning in their future.
Question 2 I need to take steps with each student that will enable me to know where each student finds their individual success. Through survey, one on one ineteraction, and background data I find what skill each child can feel good about, no matter if it is an academic skill or not. I then turn this skill in to a motivator, making each child know they can do some things well and will also learn skills that help them excel academically.
I would like to say, Mary Alice is on the right track. Once a child develops a "love" for reading or any other academic area, the door is open. It is crucial we find the one topic in school that can spark that inspiration. Reading paves the way for all learning and must remain an enjoyable, adventurous acquisition. What would we do without opportuniy and access???
I agree completely, self confidence is the key and small group work is an ideal way to enhance that confidence. I often find when I step out of the group the students can take more ownership of their learning/success.
My mission is like an old Pender County School statement: Each day, each child sucess. I this this to the point statement embodies my life long philosphy.As a long-time former EXC teacher, I firmly believed that I was tatamount in helping ensure that each student I taught experienced success in goals and objectives in some degree on a yearly, and indeed, on a daily basis. As a current kindergarten teacher, my mission has not changed. I want my students to experience success each day! As I tell my students occasionally, it's my joyous job to teach them and it is their job to be the best student they can be. Janet Ensign RPP
I am willing to take any steps necessay to ensure growth and development of my students and to ensure their success. I am in agreement w/ Yeuell that individual success increases and ensures motivation.I have always believed that the adage of a self fulfilling propecy is true and having high expectations for success helps students actualize those expectations and acheive their best success. It is often not easy when faced with a student who believes themself to be unsuccessful and who has many related behaviors which could inhibit their optimal learning but, in my many years experienc it is the best course a teacher can take. Janet Ensign RPP
I think my mission, to be specific, is different for each child. One child I will strive to have him feel comfortable enough to benefit from his experiences. Another my mission is to have her realize that some things are better off not said. But I think that as a whole, my mission is, and always has been, to help children want to find their way to being a better part of our community and society. I won't tell them how to do it, nor will I give them answers to all of their problems. I will show them what it takes to do it. I will ask them the questions that take more than a word to answer, that will make them think and wonder and imagine. How will I do this? I make them each a part of my life; a part of my family. I try to help them feel like they do matter, their thoughts and opinions are meaningful, and that you can have disappointment and learn and be better because of it. I may not know everything about a child's home life, but I know who they are with me.
#1: My mission while carrying out the NCSCOS is to provide my students with the as many diverse learning opportunities as possible, thus teaching to all learning styles.
In order to carry out this "mission" I strive to make sure my students understand that we all learn differently and that it's very important to try new things and to try approaching new concepts or problems from many angles. This helps my students who may not feel they are "keeping up" develop more confidence thus not being afraid to ask questions or to even occasionally fail at a task. I've noticed that this also helps my students develop compassion for thier peers and a willingness to help their classmates persevere.
#2: To ensure academic success for my students, I meet frequently with my colleagues to share and collect ideas. I attend content appropriate workshops and actively seek out supportive materials on line. I also make sure parents are given resources at the beginning of the year to support their child's learning at home and encourage them to come to me whenever they feel they need more support/advice/information. I also use my small group time to aggressively engage my students in activities focused solely on areas in which they need intervention(s)or enrichment.
I totally agree with you about staying focused on where a child begins and the progress he/she makes throughout the year. We often get caught up in the pressure to get all of our students on the same level that we may be overlooking the achievements they are already making. By taking the time to acknowledge those successes, we will undoubtedly boost their self confidence & self esteem which can only have a positive effect on their future successes (i.e. being more willing to take risks and push themselves to do better).
1. Each day . . . each child . . . success! I want to inspire, yes inspire a love for learning. What we do each day, affects children for life. I want all children to end the day with a positive attitude toward school, learning, and themselves. I want them to learn something new each day and I want to learn something from them each day. These are my kids and I want only the best for each one. 2. Following are the steps that I know most of us use on a daily basis. a. Communicate, communicate, communicate - Parents can be our best supporters. They need to know what is going on as well as how they can help. We must be specific on things they can do at home. We must also make them feel WELCOME in our classroom. They are part of our team. It takes all of us. b. Team Collaboration - Use your team members. We don't know it all, but together, we can do so much more. This also helps you to feel more supported. Good colleagues are invaluable. c. Meet each child where they are - We do not have cookie cutter classes. Each child deserves all that we have to offer. d. Begin on a positive note and end on a positive note - Sometimes, we are the only smile they see during the day. We may give the only hug they will receive. Just remember, how would you like for your child to be treated each day.
To TWood I agree with you about meeting their academic, emotional, and social needs. We must remember the WHOLE child. Too many times, we focus solely on academics. We think that test scores are the bottom line. How sad would it be if we missed one of these areas? I am so glad that we work with people who REALLY want all children to succeed. We have the greatest teachers.
To Carla RPPS, I so agree that we need to always begin on a positive note. You are right, sometimes we are the only smile some of these kids see all day. For some, school is the only nourishment they have period; whether it be nutritional, social, love, or academic. It is important to know this fact and embrace these kids as if they were our own while they are with us. Even when the students are driving me crazy... they are good kids, and I love them. I wouldn't want anything less for my own child when he goes to school.
My personal mission is to greet each child every day with a smile and a hello. To be sensitive to how they are feeling as soon as they get out of their car. I seek to help sooth any bad feelings before entering the building. Next is to spend the time they come to remediation class giving them the little extra attention they may need to grasp what they may be missing in a big class setting. To watch the light bulbs come on is a mission I work towards everyday.
The steps I’m willing to take are to go the extra mile in the morning and stop kids who seem to be having a bad morning, and try to help solve the problems. Sometimes it’s as simple as a hug; maybe they forgot something, or just listening when they’ve had a bad morning at home. In remediation class I have teachers fill out forms each 9wks to help me know what areas the student needs help in. Study the software and research math and reading programs on the internet to find fun ways to learn. Work with each child individually as much as possible to make sure they get the extra help they need.
Bender and Wood at CFE both talked about how collaboration is so important and I agree with them. Teachers who are willing to share what they have in the way of materials and what they have learned can benefit students, staff members and parents alike. I also liked what Christy at CFE said. She is willing to go to any lengths to help a child learn and that is what it takes. We can complain all day about how parents don't help, no one works with the students, they come in so low...all of that may be true, but we must be willing to go beyond that to reach each and everyone. A former principal of mine said that parents are not keeping their good children at home; they are sending us the best they have. It makes no difference how they come to us; we must be willing to move them forward as far as is humanly possible. Donna, RPP
My personal mission is to help the students in my school live up to their full potential. I would do this by teaching the NCSCOS to the best of my ability, modeling good character, and maintaining high expectations for each of them. TLaBor@CFE
My personal mission is to help the students in my school live up to their full potential. I would do this by teaching the NCSCOS to the best of my ability, modeling good character, and maintaining high expectations for each of them. TLaBor@CFE
To ensure my students reach academic success I plan to teach the NCSCOS, use assessments as a guide to future teaching, hold high expectations for each of my students, and work with colleagues and parents to fine tune my teaching for each individual student. TLaBor@CFE
This response is for amigo at RPP-I think you are right about getting kids active when they are young and still enjoy it. Having PE nights for students and family is a great idea. Parents and their children can learn skills and behaviors they can practice together, not just on one night but in the future. Many of our parents do not have/take the opportunity to spend enough time with their children and this is an enjoyable and beneficial way for them to do it. I understand the frustration about having so few parents attend school functions (even the fun ones!). But don’t give up! You never know what a difference you may make in the lives of the parents you do have the opportunity to meet. TLaBor@CFE
My mission as a reading teacher is to reach all of my students in a way that is positive, understanding, and fair. The clssrom needs to be a place that a students looks forward to coming, a place that fosters learning in a way that is fun. We all know that if we make learning fun, the students are more likely to retain that information. I also want my students to feel safe and important because I might be the only bright spot in their day.
Janie @ RPP says:#1: My personal mission is "Kindergarten is a Journey, not a race!" #2: In order to meet academic success for all, I make the most of each moment by giving students memorable learning experiences that will carry the learning home, on the bus, in a grocery store or riding in a car. Every child has a different way of learning and my job is to teach to their personal learning style in small group or one on one. Games are a great resource that I use daily in my classroom. Songs we sing are embedded with vocabulary and content that help the brain make important connections and reinforce the learning. Communicating with parents is key. I send home materials that are easy to use such as flashcards, games, etc. My classroom family is a caring, friendly community that loves to read, sing, play and solve problems.
In order to carry out my "mission" I will stay on top of my game by following the NCSCOS as well as attend conferences, workshops etc. I will also use differentiation in my classroom. None of us have a classroom in which everyone learns at the same pace or in the same way. That is where differentiation comes in. It is vital in our students learning.
I will also collaborate with colleagues. This is very important because we can learn so much from each other and we all have great ideas. Unless we share, we never know.
Finally, when I see my students first thing in the morning I greet them with a smile and try to carry that through all day long. I tell them to believe in themselves as well as help them build confidence in themelves. I am in this profession because of the students and I think that we all need to step back at times and remember no matter what, these children need us.
My mission this year is to help the children not only prepare for kindergarten, but also to instill in them a love for learning that will stay with them throughout their academic careers. Perhaps the most important years in a child's education are the early years in which their philosophies of learning are formed. Knowing that, it is my mission to help them form a philosophy that will help them not only acquire new knowledge, but apply the knowledge they are acquiring.
In order to succeed I plan to start by expanding my own knowledge of children and how they learn, then applying that to classroom practices as I assist my lead teacher in her classroom actitivies. I also believe that developing close working relationships with my students, their families, and my co-workers create a caring and inviting environment that enhances the children's learning experience.
I agree with Mr. Amigo, that physical activity should be viewed as fun, I believe that it should be every teachers mission to provide their children with a healthy level of activity considering the rising levels of obesity in our society.
RIGHT ON!!! There are demanding pressures from local and state requirements and not to mention the pressure and expectations we put on ourselves as educators. So, we do have to step back and applaud our successes and the milestones we have helped make in the lives of these children. The whole time hoping we are one small part in the development of the productive human being they are becoming!! :)
My mission as an EC Teacher is to make sure that every child meets their IEP goals based on state standards. Unfortunately sometimes the environment that they live and/or learn in is not conducive to meeting their individual needs. Therefore my realistic goal for them is that they grow academically, mentally, and emotionally. MY hope is that they will be better off in June than they were in August. I will use any resource available to me to help meet that goal parent input, volunteers etc...
In response to Carolyn Lunsford, I agree that motivation is the foundation for teaching a child to read and enjoy it. I am an avid reader myself and if it wasn't for my parents taking me to the library and modeling reading I wouldn't be who I am today. I also had wonderful teachers who inspired me to read and I am grateful to them for that.
As an ESL teacher I am currently working with a very high at risk drop-out population. Although we are making great progress at the elementary and middle school levels as far as EOG scores are concerned. I feel I am not doing enough in getting the message across to our ELL's of how important it is for them to finish high school and possibly go on to college. My mission is to have a greater effect on the ELL's so that they fear the aspects of higher education.
Unfortunately being smart is just a small part of being acedemically successful for our ELL's. My goal will be to make these students more successful.I will start with motivation,and with a sense of worth. The sooner I can make this connection with these students the better our chances that these students will succeed in school on a academic and social level
In response to Carla, I totally agree that we can learn so much from our students. I really had not thought about that, but it is so true. When I think about our students' interests, I always try to identify with them and begin on their level. We should begin and end on a positive note. Communication, collaboration, and meeting each child where they are, are all key elements to success in teaching and learning!
You are so right about making sure that the kids know that we believe in them. Way to many don't have enough or any positive influence in their lives. As a child it is hard to believe in yourself if no one else does. That is why we as educators are so important. Our job is not only to teach them academics, but also self worth!
1. I teach kids at the very beginning of their academic career - Pre-k! My personal mission is to give these children the skills to be socially aware, to become problem-solvers and give them the base for the academics they are going to learn in the coming years.
2. There are many steps I will take to achieve this mission. Through modelling and teaching, the children will learn the words they need to say when they need something from the teacher or another child. I use the Second Step program to help the children become problem solvers and gain empathy for their fellow classmates. So, hopefully by the end of the year, the children will be caring and independent little citizens. We do many academics in pre-k. It has almost become like Kindergarten. The kids will be writing their name, recognizing many letters and letter sounds, rhyming, counting and recognizing numbers, patterning, sequencing, sorting, plus much more by the end of the year. To build on these skills, I attend many workshops, use idea books, utilize the internet, plus collaborate with my colleagues to get many ideas. I reflect on my lessons on whether they were a success or need a little tweaking. I am always gaining new knowledge and trying to add on to my lessons to make the kids the best they can be! Amy Leister RPP
In response to Carla's comment, I always say that I am also learning from these children. They truly help me remember to always appreciate the little things in life. Because those little things become the big things in the long run. I love seeing their little eyse light up when they realize they can do something new or they know the answer. THEY teach US every day! Amy Leister RPP
I love it when you said that you need to meet the child where they are. This proves the diversity in our classrooms. We need to understand where they are are get them to a point where they can be successful. I also like that you begin and end on a positive note. That is something that from the very beginning I have done. This is vital to our students.
1) As a teacher of Exceptional Children, my mission is to do everything in my control to help my student's master both academic and functional goals. Also, it is my mission to allow my student's to be mainstreamed with their typical peers whenever it's suitable. 2) In order to assure academic success, I am willing to stay longer hours and buy necessary supplies to make academics more interesting and rewarding! I am also willing to speak to the necessary people and fight for my student's rights to be mainstreamed, when suitable.
1. My mission is to be everything I can be for my students in order for them to be everything they can be.
2. I will provide anything that I possibly can to help my students reach their educational goals. I will help in every area they need help in, so that they will not fall behind.
It's nice to see that others also understand that all students are different and will reach academic/emotional milestones at different times. In special education, this is especially important. Most important is to maintain your patience while working with individual student's to reach their goals.
Mrs. Lee (RPP)said: #1: My personal mission is: “Every Day, Every Way, Do All that You Can To Succeed!”
#2: We do all that we can to reach and teach every child in our room. I have learned that Kindergarten is hands on and minds on. We use all kinds of manipulatives when introducing each concept. We guide and model, model, model. If they don’t understand something, we work until they do. We never give up. We have high expectations and give them time to work on the things they need to work on.
My missions statement is very simple-I want to be the person for each student in my class that I am supposed to be. That means that I have many roles to fill. To one student I might be the only person that hugs them while to another I might be the teacher that gives them the opportunity to get their hands dirty making playdough or sitting down & realizing that other words begin with the same letter as their name.I pray every day that I make a difference in each of my kids lives.
As for the steps-I am willing to go that extra mile for each of my students. I want to help them understand that this is just the beginning & that they will be learning a lot more than what I am teaching them. I will do my best to teach all of my students the social skills that are needed to become productive 'little' members of society as well as the academic skills needed to go on to Kindergarten. I will try to better myself by attending workshops & collaborating with other teachers to get new ideas. I will also try to work with their parents as closely as possible to ensure their success. And I totally agree with Hudson from CFE. I think that more & more kids are not being pushed to learn a love for reading. I think that this is a skill that is so important. I also agree with teaching them how to find information on their own. So many children now are not willing to look for things on their own. I think that if we teach them how to find answers & handle problems on their own the world will be a better place.
I believe it takes a village... to educate a child. To me this means it takes the parents, teachers, administration, and all other support staff to scaffold each child into a successful student. A child can't just be dumped into a class and wha-la, you have a highly successful, self motivated learner. They have to feel safe, motivated and successful. To achieve this the child must feel that their parents support the school, the school is warm and inviting, and their teacher is excited and enthusiastic about helping them learn.
Personally I will do just about anything to help students succeed academically. I strongly believe in differentiating instruction and independent work. I don’t know how you can get anything accomplished if the task the student is doing isn’t on their level. I will also make my room inviting by greeting the student each morning and listening to the stories they want to share with me. I will make sure that parents feel they can contact me and that I am available to help them in any way too if needed. I will pull students 1 on 1 to work with them based on their needs. I will seek out resources and collaborate with other teachers and specialists, I will continue to be a student myself, always seeking to learn new ways to meet student needs. To tell you the truth, I would probably stand on my head if I thought it would get a child to succeed.
To Greenoe: I totally agree that it is the teacher’s model of love for education that is inspiring to children. Kinda like Mrs. Moore said, children are seeking a stable adult role model in their life. For a lot of them that may be their teacher. What a powerful position that puts us in. Not only to shape their minds but also who they may grow up to be. I also agree with you Greenoe, it is important to listen to what children are saying and use it to guide what we are doing.
1.My mission statement as a second grade teacher would be to provide a loving,compassionate and caring classroom where students aren't intimdated to express their feelings and thoughts. I am a teacher who truly cares about her students futures and do all I can to help them achieve their highest expectations. I want to help them become successful and productive adults. It is important to make learning not only fun but also interesting. 2.I am willing to take any steps necessary to ensure my students get everything they need. I communicate with parents,specialists,bus drivers, past teachers and coworkers. I am constantly looking for new ideas to help my students that are struggling with a new topic. I pull from old programs that were strong in an area and use them if need be. We have a parent night in the fall to help our parents understand the expectations of second grade. Anything I can do I will for my students.
From Janie @ RPP: To Holly Harrison: I totally agree with meeting the children at their level and making them feel important. When students feel safe, they are ready to tackle the learning that needs to take place!
My personal mission statement is that all kids get a quality education in a socially and psychologically nurturing environment. That I want my school and my county to compete globally for the future jobs that will need to be filled. As a teacher assistant, I feel that kids need to be inspired even if they cannot get it at home.
Mr. Chris, CFE: 100 % agreed. Obesity is a huge problem for our culture. Let's make the kids aware of this through good nutrition, physical exercise and mental stamina.
BullardRPP- 1. I think as a teacher I have one mission, but have many ways of completing that mission. My mission is to encourage, edify and educate each child that walks into my door.
2. Academic success is acheived as a team: the child, the teacher, the family, the administration and any other factors that impact a child. As a teacher, I get to know the students (weaknesses/ strengths), build their confidence, provide differentiated instruction, speak with colleagues/families, use outside resources, attend workshops, use our guidance counselor...anything to see a child succeed and grow! Communication with other teachers is one key for me, because my colleagues are extremely encouraging! They may have other ideas or offer other support that I may need. Communication with the families of the student are my other important factor. I really try to keep the family connected to what we are learning in class and what concepts their child may be struggling or growing in! I also make sure I communicate with the actual student to let them know what is going on. @HollyGreenoe: Yes! We absolutely MUST model what we want our children to accomplish. We cannot 'speak' [through body language], "Do as I say, not as I do". When they see you enjoy education and learning, they usually follow suit.
In my classrooms, I follow the mission that is stated by PCS for the gifted education program which is to facilitate student growth and learning over time so that each child's potential is developed to its maximum. Teaching kids to explore, research, design, create, present, write, and construct is a rewarding process because you can watch children develop talents not typically seen in the regular classroom.
Todd S, CFE My mission is to earn respect by giving respect. If I form a trusting relationship with my students then they will be willing to listen, work hard, and do what is expected of them. If I model a calm and positive demeanor while handling problems, then I will have a calm and positive classroom. My mission is to help children feel good about who they are, so they can have the courage to reach their potential.
My mission is to provide access to students and staff to the growing collection of all educational and recreational print and electronic resources available to them in our media center, computer lab, and throughout the school. The purpose of our media center is also to educate all students in the use of available electronic and print resources and in the information skills and critical thinking skills required to place them at an educational advantage as life-long learners for the future.
I am willing to do just about anything to make books attractive and fun to my students. I am willing to entertain by singing, dancing, and even "doing the voices" to make a book come alive. I am willing to help my students to see the value of print as well as technology and to show them how the two can be integrated. I am willing to do what I can to support and collaborate with administrators and classroom teachers to provide all our students with a variety of print and technology resources as well as a strong understanding of how to use them to succeed in the 21st century.
To CFE Sikes: I was reading about what you are willing to do. I agree that sometimes we have to just meet our students where they are and go from there. There are times when we have to deal with issues that are not necessarily academic first before a child can even begin to concentrate on learning. There are times when we have to be willing to take a moment to be nurturers and counselors before we can be the educators.
MInsco CFE My personal mission as a third grade reading teacher is to become the best facilitator of learner that I possibly can be. To me this means having a positive impact on my students, having a respectable and working relationship with the parents of my students and my coworkers. I also have the personal goal of gaining more knowledge in my subject area. To achieve these goals I will continue my own education, seek assistance from other teachers and coworkers, and work closely with our ESL teacher and literacy coach.
Among the steps I am willing to take to ensure student success are furthering my education as needed, to reach out to others for guidence and assistance including having other teacher model practices they use that I may not have thought about, flexible grouping of my students depending on assessments given, recognizing problem areas and implementing interventions as soon as problems bcome apparent. I also believe that many of our parents want to help their students succeed as well and reaching out to these parents may be a valuable resource to ensure the success of my students.
To or'Ac at RPP from MInsco CFE - I believe some of the most influencial people in a school sometimes are not the teachers at all but the ones that ask about the books they students want to read, make sure they are there, and inform the students of other types of books they may want to read. As a librarian, (and a bus driver) you often have the opportunity to show the students that there is someone other than teachers on their side, keeping them safe, as you said.
To T. Moore at RPP from MInsco CFE I like your comments about being a stable adult for the students. I agree, many of these students do not have good role models, or even good home lives. My class last year more so than this year proved this. I think we show the students that there is a place where they can relax and be safe and learn. Sometimes we not only have to teach the objectives, but also life lessons. This can be challenging and can wear on you, but it is a fact and to be a good teacher (no matter what your position at the school) I think understanding that makes you a better role model for all of our students.
To T. Moore at RPP from MInsco CFE I like your comments about being a stable adult for the students. I agree, many of these students do not have good role models, or even good home lives. My class last year more so than this year proved this. I think we show the students that there is a place where they can relax and be safe and learn. Sometimes we not only have to teach the objectives, but also life lessons. This can be challenging and can wear on you, but it is a fact and to be a good teacher (no matter what your position at the school) I think understanding that makes you a better role model for all of our students.
1. My mission as an art teacher is to provide a safe, creative environment within which students can explore self expression and learn life skills while finding relevance to their other subjects and experiences. 2. I will take any step necessary to help our children succeed. I will continue to provide differentiated learning experiences. I will continue to correlate my lessons with other core subjects as much as possible. I will continue to encourage our children to express themselves through their artwork and writing and also to be independent and do things for themselves. I will continue to encourage development of proper social skills through teamwork. I will continue to communicate with the students, their teachers, and parents in order to gain insight and understanding into each child's needs. I will continue to learn each day and model that behavior for our students.
To Bogan RPP, I agree with you completely when you are talking about helping children to find their own way, not by handing it to them, but showing them what it takes. All too often I have students who will not try to do something, and immediately turn and say, "Can you do this for me?" Of course my response is "No. If someone always does it for you what do you learn?" Usually the student's response is "Nothing." I tell them "Wrong. You learn that giving up is okay and it's not." Students are always asking me how I became so good at drawing and I tell them by practicing and not giving up until I got it right, and every now and then I come across a student who is determined to do something until he/she gets it right.
My personal mission for this job is simple. It's not for the money, it's not for the recognition I may one day get, it's for these babies. For me to see the light bulb go off in their little minds when they have mastered a concept wheter it be their alphabet or learning how to say their whole name, is what it is all about. I think that in this day and time to many people are out to get their fame and fortune and that's not what this job is about. This job to me is about helping these tiny little babies grow up and to teach them how to learn. We have so many kids who come into these schools not even knowing how to hold a pencil that we have a lot of work ahead of us but that's what makes it so exciting. I love not knowing what they are going to say next and I love seeing where their minds take them when we learn a new subject. It just puts a smile on my face to know that this is what I was put on this Earth to do and I feel that I do it well.
I know that I go above and beyond in trying to help my students reach academic sucess. Beyond doing the everyday differentation I have spent many nights on the phone or at their houses trying to coach their parents into different ways to help at home. I have spent much of my personal time trying to help bridge the gap between home and school with so many of my students. Beyond that I think that the best possible way to help students reach academic success is for you as the teacher to have a open and respectful relationship with their parents. If you have their trust then they are going to do what they can to help their children. I have seen parents make a complete 180 degree turn by me treating them like humans and not being ugly and demeaning to them.
I love what you said about you being here to be a stable adult in their lives. That is beyond true. Like you said, there are way to many kids out here that do not have the slightest bit of stablitly and that is heart wrenching. That is such an insightful comment that more people should be aware of and realize how much that does mean.
I agree that we should do our best to help our students to be in good health. It is important that we take care of them and teach them by example. Thank you for your interest and concern and that you're working to make a difference.
As a fifth grade teacher, my personal mission is to model a love for reading in all subject areas by showing my enthusiasm about each topic. I enjoy creating lessons that are fun with games, hands-on projects, drama, videos, choral readings, music and anything else I can incorporate to make the subject interesting, memorable, and concrete for all my students.
1. My mission as an EC teacher is to help my students and those students that are struggling be successful and feel good about themselves and their academic ability. Try to find the positive for each student no matter how trying they can be. To be the best teacher that I can be! 2. Going the extra mile for my students is what I'm willing to do. I try to be creative in the activities we do for the students to help keep their attention and make them academically rewarding. Give them 110% of me and my abilities!
I am willing to take whatever steps are necessary to make sure my students reach academic success. First, I have found that, working with a large number of below grade level and low achieving students, many times they just need my faith and belief in them because they often don't have that for themselves. Once I show them ways to be successful, their work ethics get stronger and stronger because they realize THEY CAN DO IT! Every lesson I plan is based on the fifth grade NCSCOS. I collaborate with my teaching team, other reading teachers, (now) our new Literacy Coach, A.R. partner, and anyone else I can tie down to get help or advise. I constantly remediate students daily as I see confusion on their faces or a lack of understanding in their work products. I use formal and informal assessments to guide my instruction and take detours where necessary. I listen to parent concerns and try to offer help for students at home when necessary. I provide an inviting, yet structured and consistent environment here at school so that students feel welcomed, successful, and accountable for their learning, as well as, behavior. Students have to experience successes (even small ones) daily in order to increase their self-esteem. Once that is happening, they work harder and harder to improve and they usually succeed!
J. Philips RPP 1. My mission as a second grade teacher is to make sure each child feels welcome in my classroom. I start each day by greeting each child individually. I want them to WANT to come to school. I believe that this opens the door to make my job as a teacher easier and helps me fill my main purpose, to teach each child and help them reach THEIR fullest potential.
2. In repsonse to Holly Greenoe: I agree that we need to make reading important, fun, and a life long process. If children become life long readers, they will become life long learners. This is easily carried out through modeling the joys of reading. By showing the knowlegde gained through reading a story, an article, etc... we are showing our class that you learn no matter your age. That is why I LOVE GOOGLE and other search engines. When I use them, I show my class that no one knows everything and that by searching and READING we can gain a wealth of knowledge.
To CarolynRPP - I like your willingness to start with students early in their education to pinpoint weaknesses and turn them into strengths. The communication with the parents is an essential tool in building students up while offering help and suggestions to be worked on at home. If that type of help continues, that child you are working with will continue to be successful all through school.
To help my student's reach academic success I will continue to: 1)Check their prior knowledge 2)Support, reteach, and enrich their knowledge 3)Provide hands-on experiences to enhance their learning through the visual arts
My mission as a teacher is to provide a caring environment in which all students feel comfortable and capable of learning. I try to inspire my classroom to function as a family: We all help and support each other and we work through conflicts. My goal is to instill values among my students that will eventually lead them to become caring, considerate adults that have compassion for other people. On the academic side, I want to provide meaningful lessons that will help my students understand the way the world works around them and how it came to be. I want to inspire them to become problem solvers and doers, to not be happy with doing the minimum to get by. I want to facilitate their learning as much as I possibly can.
The steps I take to ensure that my students to success is constantly changing and developing. I always try to communicate with as many people as I can: parents, coworkers, and outside resources (like my professors and fellow graduate students, and colleagues at other schools). I also use the internet, and anyone or anything that I think will help me help my students. I think the role of a teacher has continued to expand over the years. We are required to take on many more "hats" than ever before: mother/father, teacher, nurse, counselor, etc. I would like to think that my students leave my classroom better prepared to face the challenges in their fustures.
In response to Tanya House....That was a great response! I agree with making learning enjoyable. If it's not enjoyable at the ages we teach (& older), they'll lose interest in school. I also agree about collaborating with others to determine how we can all work together to enrich the learning of all our students.
My mission as Literacy and Title 1 Facilitator is to provide support for our RPPS family (staff, administrators, parents and students) as we work for the common goal of enriching literacy for our students. “Each of us has a spark of life inside us, and our highest endeavor ought to be to set off that spark in one another.” – Kenny Ausubel
Some of the steps we are working on at RPPS to enrich literacy include: strengthening our professional knowledge, data analysis to guide and enhance instruction, flexible grouping to differentiate instruction, celebrating our successes and acknowledging our challenges of meeting the needs of diverse learners, taking time to reflect, and connecting learning to the real world.
To Holly Greenoe @CFE I totally agree. Modeling your love for reading inspires children to become readers. “There is more treasure in books than in all of the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island…And best of all, you can enjoy these riches every day of your life.” – Walt Disney
To TWood @ CFE When you believe in them, they will be successful. After all, the best thing we bring to them is ourselves. “Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher.” - Japanese proverb
My personal mission for the job that I do is to help each student to become successful academically and socially discovering and pursuing their dreams and aspirations. C.Witherspoon RPP
I want to do all aspects of my job effectively including teaching/helping students, holding meetings, paperwork, parent and teacher education/involvement, etc and believe whole-heartedly in the team approach. Collaboration is a great thing and we can learn so much from each other. I want to use all of the resources available to be able to do my job effectively and successfully.
I am willing to help students achieve academic success in whatever way(s) necessary. Children all learn differently so it is important to collaborate with teachers, parents, previous school personnel, counselors, support personnel, etc. to determine the most effective way to help these children succeed.
In response to Sutton CFE, I love that you incorporate music in your lessons. Think of how we all learn jingles/songs from the tv, radio, etc. and sing them over and over without even realizing it. Lots of children could learn/remember most anything if it could be put to music. My aunt, also a teacher, taught her son his multiplication tables by putting them to music.
Hope from RPP likes what Harrison said from CFE about having a caring environment for her students. I too try and have a smile on my face each morning for my students.
To Tanya @ CFE It seems we share the same mission and the same ideas for a successful student even though we teach at different grade levels. J. Weiss@ RRP
JHowell RPP said.. My mission is to provide each student a diverse education in a safe, supportive environment that promotes self-discipline, motivation, and excellence in learning. My team at RPP joins my parents and community to assist the students in developing skills to become independent and self-sufficient adults who will succeed and contribute responsibly in a global community. All this is driven by the NCSCOS.
JHowell RPP said... #2: I am willing to take creative, alternative, insistent, persistent, traditional, crazy, nutzo, and inventive steps to ensure my students reach their academic goals. Those steps may look different for each child, as I seek to differentiate instruction to meet their needs. Although, truthfully, I find that very challenging! I find seeking out my colleagues' advice a CRITICAL resource in my growth as an educator. I also seek to collaborate with the families to make sure the entire team (family-school-community) is in agreement on the steps.
to Holly Greenoe at CFE from JHowell at RPP...I love that you include the word "inspire" in your mission. Think of the teachers or others in your life who truly made a difference in your life as a child. Weren't they inspirational? Mine were. Thanks for reminding me.
I agree with you. The children that pass through our classrooms need to know that we believe in them. Every child likes to know that someone is on their side and believe they can do anything they believe in.
I will work with my students and their familes to keep good communication open. I will work along with my teacher and assist in any way that I can. I believe that working with small groups is one of the many ways to help our students and give them the support needed. I would want all of my students to know that I love them and as a result of that they will know that I want the best for them. I feel they should be praised when they have done a good job and I also believe the one that may be struggling needs encouragement. We will do this one day at a time.
The mission of my school counseling program is to provide a comprehensive guidance program that will assist all students in acquiring the skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to become effective students, responsible citizens, productive workers and lifelong learners. I believe the counseling program is a service providing a vital link to the total instructional system in the school and consistent guidance curriculum based on the developmental and educational needs for every student. As many have said before, students have many obstacles in their life that prevent them from being the best learners they can be. I try my best to eliminate the obstacles so they can be focused and ready to learn.
As I stated in my previous posting, I believe I need to help eliminate obstacles to learning. Sometimes this can be as easy as being a comforting person to talk to other times it may be as challenging as bringing difficult situations to the attention of the parent or authorities. I am willing to step out of my comfort zone to benefit the student.
To CBishop @ RPP: I love your mission statement. I think sometimes, we become so concerned about the pressures for our students to meet the expectations set by the state, that we forget to be excited about the small milestones every child makes. I have to remind myself to celebrate them sometimes and I think that is sad. The big picture is so overwhelming!
My mission statement is to teach all of my students to the best of my ability and to use all the technology and resources that I can find.
I am willing to participate in parent and college classes to help students grow. I am willing to problemsolve with other educators to help solve instructional and student problems. I think extra instruction is needed for me in technology for me to advance students to a higher educational level
I love Mrs. Havens' statement about striving for your EC students to have ownership of their own success. I feel the same way about my EC students. They work so hard and sometimes feel defeated that they are below their peers. It is so important to have them celebrate their individual successes and triumphs. My mission as an Excpetional Childrens' teacher is to provide my students multiple opportunities to be successful and grow both academically and socially.
For my students to reach academic success I try to utilize the students interests and stregths- whether it is music or book characters, etc. We need to be willing to think across multiple intellengences and in a variety of forms. As well as willing to scrap an unsuccessful idea and start fresh. Our priority is the students, we can not be rigid in our methods.
Since I truly believe that "All children can learn," my mission as a 4th grade teacher is to promote the academic, social, and emotional growth of my students. I am passionate about what I do (even after 30+ years of doing it), and I fully accept the responsibility to nurture and motivate my students. I work hard to provide a meaningful learning atmosphere, where students can meet their fullest potential. I hope to impart my passion for reading by inspiring my reading students to grow as readers, and to be life-long readers. I strive to make lessons relevant and meaningful, and I set high expectations for all of my students.
#2 The steps I am willing to take to insure that students will be successful include: -maintaining open communication with students and their families -talking and sharing with colleagues -reading professional articles, and participating in professional development activities to reassess and enhance instructional strategies that will help my students to reach their potential -collaborating with the AIG Specialist and EC Teacher to plan differentiated activities to meet the needs students on both ends of the academic spectrum -differentiating instruction and assignments to meet the many varied academic needs of all students I teach -providing small group interventions using research based programs -encouraging and supporting the goals and dreams of my students
I am in total agreement with your mission statement! (All children can learn, and all children have the right to learn.) I think your entire mission statement is right on target. We need to focus on each child as an individual, and take into account their overall successes (educational, personal, and social).
Mandy Harrell RPPS... My mission as a counselor is to advocate for all children. In developing the counseling center it is my mission to assist the students in developing emotionally, socially and academically. I desire to be the positive, encouraging face the students know they can always trust and rely on. I strive to ensure they know Mrs. Harrell will support them in every way, no matter what their abilities or backgrounds. The steps I am willing to take to fulfill my position are numerous, but one that comes to mind easily, is to reach out and know all the students of RPPS. The more I know of them, the better suited I will be to address their personal needs. Knowing the dynamics of a class also help focus the character lessons for classroom guidance. I balance my schedule to enrich myself with professional development workshops. You may have to weed through different classes, but then every now and then there will be one class that just related to your school so well. One more way that comes to mind, is to act and conduct myself in a manner that will make the students feel comfortable. That sometimes means losing inhibition and acting silly. When we get too serious, learning can be hard and enjoyment can be lost. I really agreed with Mrs. Harrison about creating and maintaining a comfortable, welcoming environment for ALL students. Let us remember to have fun. Even when discouraged about the politics of education we must ask ourselves, "How will the student remember me in their lives?" We need to make them feel successful. That means even if they score a 1 on the LOL and then achieve a 2 on the EOG for them that is success and they have grown.
Terri, I like what you had to say about your responsibility being not only to meet the standards of education, but also to teach each student how to continue the learning process. Discovery is a wonderful means for students to find information, and to learn new things. :-)
My mission statement is to provide a safe and risk-free learning environment in which all kids are accepted and can achieve academic growth and success regardless of their limitations.
The steps I intend to take to ensure that my students are successful are - *create a positive and risk-free learning environment *provide meaningful activities for students in which they can strengthen and enhance their learning *effectively teach the necessary concepts, skills, and processes to further their mathematical understanding *relate instruction to the "real-world" as much as possible *hold students accountable for their learning *assess the academic, social, and emotional needs of my students *provide differentiated instruction to help meet their academic needs *collaborate with colleagues to share ideas,develop plans and activities *establish and maintain communication with parents and others involved in the wellbeing of my students *encourage students to always do their best and learn from their mistakes *motivate students to strive for fluency and accuracy in their work *"exercise" their minds by providing challenging actvities *praise and recognize students not only for their achievements but for their effort and hard work
To Amigo RPP, I really like your idea of the PE Parent Night. Too often, as classroom teachers, we tend to focus on the academic needs of our students (because of state testing)and we forget about their physical needs. We all have a responsibility in teaching our students to take care of their bodies. Perhaps your idea of a PE Parent Night could be held in conjunction with another school event - this might increase the participation. It is quite frustrating when you plan an event and only a few turn out - but you're right, at least those five students got the benefit.
My mission is based on a quote by W. B. Yeats: Education is not the filling of a bucket, but the lighting of a fire. Especially in Kindergarten, I have a very important job of introducing children to their first experiences with school. Some may have been in Pre-K before, but for many it is the first time they have been in any type of school setting. I want them to learn to love school! If they don't, it will only be harder as the years go on to make them WANT to learn. If I want my students to grow up to be lifelong learners, I HAVE to light that fire. I have to get them excited for learning and spark those questions in their little heads that make them want to find out WHY. I made this my personal mission because as the curriculum/standards become more intense and the expectations of teachers piles on our shoulders, we can't simply fill the kids' heads with skills like a bucket. We have get them to be intrinsically motivated.
The way I do this is by showing my excitement for learning. I let the kids know how fun it is to read, or how exciting math can be. I collaborate with all of my K-team to find out new ways of teaching and to get ideas that will make what we are teaching fun for the kids. I also talk to my kids about the big picture: They love knowing that what they are learning now is going to help them get to "the big schools" to become middle and high schoolers. They see that there is a reason to learn today because it will get them to where they want to be in the future.
To Holly Greenoe CFE: I definitely agree! We have to be the ones to model lifelong learning and excitement for school. And I also agree that you have to talk to everyone involved in each child's life. Like many of the posts have said "it takes a village." If every adult in a child's life modeled their motivation to read and to learn, then how could a child not pick up on that?
My personal mission statement goes so much deeper than just meeting the academic needs of my students or teaching them the SCOS for math, science and writing. I want to set an example for each of my students that they can be and do and achieve if they will work hard and set personal goals for themselves. I want to encourage and motivate students, even if that makes them uncomfortable, tired, or mad. In the process of doing this I truly want to show them compassion show them that I honestly DO care about them as more than just a number or a test score. 10 years from now a student might forget that I taught them how to multiply, but they may never forget that I believed in them and wanted them to succeed as a person.
To make sure my students reach acadmeic success I am willing to do a variety of things. I try to meet the needs of my students where they are at, so I try to present the material at their individual level. I provide them with opportunities for success. I am not afraid to stay late to prepare for the next day or the next week. I constantly give 100% to try and give my students my best effort so they will give me their best effort. In addition I search the internet and talk with other colleagues and professionals to come up with new strategies and techniques to be a better teacher.
To Janet at RPP, I totally agree with you about making your kids feel welcome and wanting to come to school. I am a firm believer in the saying that people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. Making them feel welcome lets them know that you care about them as a person and you care about their feelings.
To Janet at RPP, I totally agree with you about making your students feel welcome. I am a firm believer in the saying "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." Making them feel welcome shows them that you care about them as people and you care about their feelings.
As a third grade teacher, it is my mission to teach each student based on their individual needs. I believe each child, no matter what thier personal circumstances can and wants to learn, so it is my responsibility to provide them with an experience that will facilitate that. It is also my mission to increase students' interest and love for reading. All teachers have the unique task of helping children to become learners for life as well as good decision makers and positive members of society.
In order to accomplish this I am willing to do just about whatever it takes. I collaborate with colleagues, spend hours outside of school to find additional resources and develop my classroom teaching style to fit the different needs of different classes from year to year, as well as the needs and interests of the different students within one class. Academic success should be a goal shared by school staff, parents and students alike, so I am willing to communicate with parents and students about their expectations for a successful and positive school year!
Response to T. Moore: I really liked what you said about loving the children being one of your personal missions. I totally agree that we are often the only stable, caring adults children It's so important to be a positive influence on all children - especially those that get very little love and attention outside of the school building. I also agree with what you said about self confidence going a long way in a child's educational experience. If you show a child that you believe in them they will work harder to believe in themselves!
As a classroom teacher, my mission is to provide every opportunity for students to develop academically and socially. I also strive to provide a stable, comfortable environment where students are not afraid to take risk that could lead to a learning experience.
In order for my students to reach academic success I am willing to use all available resources and collaborate with my colleagues. I work with them one on one and in small groups in order to make sure they read their learning goals and have opportunities to practice skills that they are developing. I also take time to get to know my students in order to build trusting and stable relationship where they can grow.
CFE Williams: I agree with you that all students can and want to learn. Sometimes it takes digging deep into our bag of tricks to find what excites the students and motivates them to learn. All the extra hours of work are worth it when the light bulb comes on and you see the connection the student makes to learning.
As a teacher of second graders, my mission is to create a positive learning environment where students and their families can thrive and work together to become continual life-long learners. I prioritize reading in my instruction. I concur with Dr. Seuss as he said: "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." Reading is often at the core of most learning. I work to mold children into becoming strong readers who adopt a personal purpose and love for reading. I still work hard to advance all academic areas, but know reading involves all subjects and mastering this skill can make all other learning easier and more enjoyable. I truly love working with children and I'm willing to take whatever steps necessary to make sure my students reach academic success. This involves continual learning on my part. I have done this through continual staff development, graduate school, and National Board Certification. Just as children's learning is a work in progress, my skills continue to change and adjust to meet the unique needs and talents each new class offers. With each child, I try to work with them and their family in creating a learning environment where they can flourish and feel successful. I keep regular contact with parents with weekly newsletters and notes, conferences, phone calls, and email. I welcome parents into the classroom and offer them ways to volunteer and be involved in their child's education. Along with this, I closely monitor each child's progress and regularly tailor my techniques and strategies to benefit each child's learning. I differentiate as much as I can through small group teaching, tiered activities, one-on-one instruction, and collaboration with resource teachers (AIG, Exceptional Children, Specialists, etc. . .). I've worked hard to closely monitor struggling students using tiered paperwork. Through this students are observed and helped with input from other peer teachers and administrators. Even though it's not always comfortable, I'm not afraid to try new techniques. I try to stay flexible as I know each child and class is unique and requires a teacher willing to adopt novel ideas and strategies to ensure students' success.
My mission as an ESL teacher is to equip English Language Learners with the language skills necessary to function comparably to their Native-English peers in academic and social situations. I will work with teachers, parents, school liaisons, and the community to help these students succeed. It is my ultimate goal for the ELLs to achieve independent academic success.
Some of the many steps I take to ensure my students reach academic success are: -collaborating with teachers, specialists, principals, parents, and the community -providing continual support as students progress -making personal connections -building confidence and encouraging students to take risks -being an advocate for ELLs -being a life-long learner -instilling motivation and interest in learning T. Podolinsky CFE
CFE Epps My Mission is to teach my children to the best of my ability with the help of the NCSCOS. My goal is to create a fun and enjoyable environment in which to teach and to create lifetime learners.
Steps I am willing to take to accomplish academic success: by learning new ways to differentiate to meet all my learners, by taking classes offered at UNCW, by being willing to accept any trainings offered by the school, by collaborating with my colleagues, and by always being willing to learn something new!
Allison, I like this quote from your response, "To help students realize their potential and make the connection that through an education they can make their dreams come true. That every child, no matter what their ethnicity, economic background or past academic achievement level, has the capability to be what ever they choose to become." Helping students realize their potential is a huge part of my goal as well. So many of the kids we teach don't see college as a possibility and thus their career choices are more limited. I always tell my kids they can dream and be whatever they want to be. I try so hard to get them to believe that. The sky's the limit is what I tell them. Even coming from a more affluent family as I did, I don't remember anyone ever telling me to pursue my dreams. I wish someone had taken the time to do that during my childhood and teenage years. I'm happy where I'm at, but it's always nice to have dreams.
Gordon RPP- I agree with what you said about motivation. Making a personal connection with these students and building their confidence can help them make tremendous gains. I also agree with you about encouraging ELLs to finish school and pursue higher education. I’m always telling my students how valuable they will be in the job market when they are bilingual. T. Podolinsky CFE
1. My mission as an ELL teacher is to nurture a positive self esteem in each student. The way students feel about themselves can produce either a successful or unsuccessful adult. I want my ELL's to feel comfortable expressing themselves in whatever language they wish in my classroom. Open communication leads to learning on both ends. ELL's need a sense of worth and belonging, and only then are they ready to let down their guard, and are ready to learn.
2. In order to make sure my ELL's reach academic success, I use myself as an example. I was in their shoes as an eight year old immigrant from Italy not knowing a word of English, and was able to achieve my goal. Through parental support and involvement, I believe that every child has the potential to be successful. I keep open communication with parents or guardians, and relay the importance that education is a tangible goal.
The steps that I am currently trying to take for ultimate academic achievement include challenging and enriching my small groups and cluster group classes. For those students who are well above grade level, I am challenging them with a curriculum above their current grade level and exposing them to various enrichment activities. I am also striving to deliver differentiated resources to the teachers so they can incorporate more higher level thinking and academic skills into their regular classroom. Katherine K. CFE
In response to Coclough at RPP, I agree that we sometimes need to be a student ourselves and be open to the learnings our students can offer. It's amazing that some of our children can learn technology and brainteasers much faster than we can. Katherine@CFE
My mission is to provide my students with a safe and positive environment in which to learn. Because they already have learning difficulties they need to feel supported and encouraged in their academic pursuits. It is also my mission to provide them with instruction that is modified for their individual needs and help them to be as successful as possible on their level and not feel a sense of failure if they don't measure up to grade level expectations. I want my students to learn to work hard and do their very best and if they do that then they can be proud of their accomplishments.
I am willing to take whatever steps are necessary to make sure my students are successful. I believe in collaboration between teachers. We can learn so much from each other and I feel we do not use each other as resources often enough. I am also willing to spend time searching for new ways to present materials that will engage their interest. I also want to reach out to the families of my students to get the involved in their child's education. This is so important. So many of our children deal with issues in their homes that we now affect their learning. It is essential that the parents understand the importance of the child's education and the things they can and need to do at home to help their child.
Adams at RPP - I totally agree with what you said about brightening someone's life be it child or adult. Some of our kids live lives that are unimaginable to us and they just need us to love them. This can help in so many ways. The adults need encouragement also because we do have a difficult job. We need to always encourage each other and build each other up.
My mission is to foster an educational foundation that follows my students throughout their lives while accounting for not only their differing learning styles but their different temperments and personalities as well. I want to teach the reading skills they need but also to instill a love of reading for knowledge and pleasure. An educational foundation would include not only reading but a love of learning and an understanding of the importance of education later in their lives, for career purposes as well as for being a contributing member of society.
Response to Flynn: I feel that reading is a part of the basis for learning in all subject areas. I agree that being successful in reading can make learning in other subjects not only "easier" but more enjoyable.
Steps I take to accomplish my mission would include preparing myself to be as knowledgable as possible of my subject areas, beginning my national boards, collaborating w/ other teachers in order to make use of the awesome knowledge and skilled mentors we have in our schools, to learn as much about my students as possible and take into account their situations, personalities, and temperments.
In response to question 1 - My mission each day is to meet each child where he or she is in the learning process and teach from there. Each child can learn - but some children have different rates of learning or styles of learning. Sometimes its a puzzle to be solved and sometimes its straightforward.
Which brings me to question 2 - When working with a class, I start by using the NCSCOS, the accepted curriculum, and other "typical" resources. For many/most students, this works! For others, I access different ideas and approaches - music, rhythm, movement..whatever has been shown to work.
To Angela Tait- I like what you said about the role of the teacher continuing to expand. I agree that the internet is one of the best teaching tools of all time - especially to gather and share new teaching ideas and research! It's obvious from everyone's postings that we all want the best for the children and sharing new ideas and insights with each other as a school community or a national community only makes us stronger.
My personal mission is to introduce students to technology in a fun, interesting and meaningful way. A major goal in teaching computer/technology skills is to prepare all students in obtaining the 21st Century skills necessary to be successful adults as they go into the workplace. Also students need to be introduced to a variety of ways that they can use technology to enhance their learning. All students learn in different ways and it's important that students have choices in the way they want to learn. Last but not least, there are skills that all students need to show proficiency in as they go through school, as stated in the NCSCOS.
My personal mission is to introduce students to technology in a fun, interesting and meaningful way. A major goal in teaching computer/technology skills is to prepare all students in obtaining the 21st Century skills necessary to be successful adults as they go into the workplace. Also students need to be introduced to a variety of ways that they can use technology to enhance their learning. All students learn in different ways and it's important that students have choices in the way they want to learn. Last but not least, there are skills that all students need to show proficiency in as they go through school, as stated in the NCSCOS.
To ensure their success, I try to introduce them to as many technology resources as I can - software and hardware. I also teach the students how to use the Internet to search for information and the importance of being "safe" on the Internet - such as not giving out too much personal information. I work with them to complete projects or activities that are tied to what they are learning in the classroom at that time - using technology as a tool to integrate the curriculum, based on the NCSCOS.
Terri at RPP - I completely agree with you that it is important to look at what is going on in the child's home life - is he getting enough to eat, a place to sleep undisturbed, and has a generally safe environment? Often a child who is acting out or disruptiveor has trouble learning may have things going on in his/her life that they cannot control, and it affects every aspect of their life. So this should be looked into - the child will have trouble succeeding if he/she does not have this safe, caring environment to live in.
1. My personal mission statement as a teacher is to educate each child in my classroom according to the given standards and to create a comfortable learning environment to nurture the 'love of learning.' 2. To ensure that my students reach academic success I like my students to mistake learning for a fun game. Technology is helpful in aiding to make learning and teaching more fun. Although, thinking of creative way to get a lesson across may take more time and energy it is worth it to the students and you.
In response to Allison Bender:
I agree that collaborating with colleagues is extremely important. Especially when a teacher has depleted his/her techniques to get a topic across, lots of times talking with a colleague will give you a fresh idea or technique.
My mission is simple: to show that all students can learn. They may all not learn at the same rate or even be able to retain the same amount, but they all can learn. Too many times students get labeled and forgotten about for many reasons, and to me this is not right. All students can learn and it is up to us as educators to make sure that each student reaches his/her potential.
In order to accomplish this I must make sure that my staff has everything they need to ensure this happens. In the times of budget cuts it makes its more challenging to accomplish this. I therefore have to make sure I use any resources possible. Communication with the staff and parents is vital as well. There are many things that have to be done to accomplish this and I could list them on pages and pages, but I think the main thing to remember is that as long as you are doing what is best for the students, then you can do no wrong.
To Janet: I agree with your statement about each of your students succeeding everyday. I particular like the part about you teaching and the students being the best learners they can be. If we as educators provide worthy lessons I believe that our students will soak up the knowledge that we giving them. Doing whatever it takes to make sure kids learn...I love it.
Mr. Chris, I agree with your comments. I find myself skipping excerise classes and going home to throw myself on the couch. I need to get back to working out along with my children and my neices and newphews. Thanks for making me think.
My mission is to grow each child as much as possible each year. I seek to know my kids on more than just an academic level. I try to form bonds with them and their family. I feel that this gives me a better opportunity to help them succeed in school.
I like your mission statement! When we seek to help students learn by using all of their talents and skills, we have the chance to reach MORE of our students.
I agree with you about seeking out new ways to help our students. I constantly desire to be a better teacher. I still feel as if there is so much more I need to learn. Teaching is so complex. Our kids have so many diverse needs. I truly believe our kids have needs that go beyond academic needs. Sometimes those other needs have to be met before academic success can be achieved.
kh,cfes, to establish and assistant with guidelines of the class and work on each individual goal by getting the student to be as independent and confident as possible while enjoying the process and setting structure.
kh,cfes, by giving all the time and effort it takes to make them feel secure in what they have learn and what they are being taught while following the set structure and guidelines set by the teacher. Repetition, continuously reteaching what they've learned and more step by step.
My mission is to motivate and prepare my students for both their school endeavors, and for life after their schooling is complete. First and foremost, my mission is to educate my students following the NC State standard course of study. Also, my mission is to supplement the standards in a way to make learning meaningful and relevant to my student population. I want to immerse my second language learners in the English language in a way that is manageable and interesting. I hope that by the time my students leave Cape Fear Elementary they will feel confident in their own abilities and be able to take on the challenges of middle school.
To make sure that my students reach their potential and achieve academic success I do the following:
1. I attempt to keep accurate and up to date records on all of my students. By tracking their daily, weekly, and monthly progress I am able to easily find when and where they are needing extra help.
2. I try my best to keep open lines of communication with my fellow teaching staff. By communicating, on a daily basis, with my students classroom teachers, I am able to discuss any questions/concerns I have about my students and make sure that my plans match and supplement what the teachers are implementing in class.
3. I make sure that I have open communication with my students. I make personal connections with my students and continuously remind them that part of my job is to give them extra help when they need it. By offering "open" time in the afternoons for students to come and "conference" with me... I am able to openly communicate with my student population about their problems, concerns, and/or achievements.
185 comments:
My mission is directly related to state and national standards, specifically, I want to give students the knowledge to develop skills necessary for health related fitness and participation in lifelong activities. NC is fifth worst in terms of obesity in the US, that isn't good! Kids these days are unfit and don't kow how to play sports! Granted, some are and some do, but the majority are more used to playing video games than real sports. An example is when a student was telling me about a goal they scored in soccer. I was excited for him until he told me that he scored it on a video game. My own kids, when we go to relatives houses, play the WIE for hours. Are you kidding me? Uncle Chris, my nephew says, let's play WIE tennis! What? Let's go to the tennis court and play real tennis!
For question 2, I really try to show and explain to the students that I am a lifelong fitness person, and that I love to play sports. I try to give them personal experiences and examples from my life how I exercise and participate in lifelong activities. I also provide a variety of non-traditional expereinces (frisbee, double dutch, etc.) for those students who have little or no success in more traditional sports where certain students who do have experience tend to dominate.
1. Currently I am an Assistant Principal and many people I come in contact with presume I am no longer a teacher. After explaining to them the number of students (including the teachers/TAs I support)and the complex nature of my job, understand that I am STILL teaching, but my job requires so much more.
My mission in being an AP is stated generally on my webpage for RPP; Together We Can. I am simply there to support EVERYONE involved in the school (parents, students, teachers, community, all colleagues)and that's my mission. Just as a teacher, I so many little jobs that comprise my job. The one thing that sticks out in my mind is ensuring that we all extend a hand to parents/community, facilitate learning to students through supporting teachers.
2. The steps I intend to take to ensure the academic success are the following:
a. Keep the lines of communication open with everyone. I find myself coaching a lot of parents on how to talk to their child's teacher many times. The parent's first line of defense is always "I'm NOT a teacher, I can't do what you do". My response is "Well, you brought them in the world and you've gotten them this far, didn't you have to teach them something to make that progress?" This usually causes a long pause in the conversation. Parents usually want to automatically start pointing fingers at the school/teacher when things are going wrong (in their eyes), but in my conversation I ask them what they did to enhance the situation; did YOU ask for a conference instead of WAITING for an invitation, did you check your child's folder/grades periodically so that you were "in the know" with the school/child? I am not usually the one to point fingers in a conversation like this, but I make a point to cause them to reflect on their practices/involvement in the situation. I plan to continue this "step" to ensure student success because communication is the key. It is our first line of defense!
Understand, there are other ways to communicate with parents,colleagues, and the community. I feel that we as teachers need to extend a helping hand to parents, whether parents show that they are willing to take the necessary steps to ensure student success. Pender County Schools generally requires this of us all, but we at "The Rock" do it very well. We care for the students, bend over backwards to help whether required or not because we know that it is for the good of the child. It is for this reason that we update our websites weekly with little homework helper tidbits, a calendar of events(keeping parents in the know,armed to help students at home), We also, ensure that we have conferences in a timely manner (not just when a child isn't doing well). We have committed to a PARTNERSHIP with parents/community because it takes us all to educate our future. We recognize that these students will oneday be taking care of us! If we don't teach them well, then we're in BIG trouble.
b. I intend also to support my fellow staff members, from the janitor to the Principal. Without OUR partnership, the students will not receive the FULL benefits they are entitled in an education. Whatever my colleagues need (within reason of course), I will help them to get it. If it's just making copies, watching a class, opening a door, providing feedback on a lesson, reminding them of upcoming events. This list could go on forever. My goal is to support and communicate with the educational environment (parents, students, teachers, TAs, etc)to ensure student achieve at their optimal level. These may be words, but I mean each and every one.
Tiffany, RPP
To Mr. Chris CFE
Health Fitness is a very important part of our lives. Many people do not perceive its importance until they've allowed their bodies to what I call "deteriorate" after so many years of not being fit. For so many years sports has been a main focal point for Pender County, but what about those who aren't into sports (playing one that is)? They still need to exercise to keep fit even if they are into other things. They may have musical, artistic or academic talents(the Superintendent has pushed us to push other areas for students to succeed in). My question to you is how or what do we do within our schools, to promote fitness among parents, students and teachers? I should ask also, do we begin at the school level or higher?
Fitness should be a way of life. You know how we wake up every morning with our same old routine, wash the face, etc.? Shouldn't we make fitness a part of the routine? Well of course we should. So many of us use being tired at the end of the day or having too much to do as a way out. I personally have used these as an excuse, but just like I had to take time to study to become a teacher, then to get my Master degrees, I've had to make a change in my way of life to ensure I am exercising and staying fit. It all comes down to making a decision to change and finding the time in our schedules.
amigo rpp
my mission as a physical educator is to teach kids the skills and appreciation for the fun you can have when you are being physcially active.Teaching kids at such a young age makes it a little easier becuase most kids love to run and play it's when they get older that kids realize that exercising and being physically active is actually work but that work is very rewarding and very necessary.
I take step so that these kids can reach there academic achievment everyday and everyweek by planning games that will help them understand that physical activity is fun. I have also planned pe nights for the parents to come with there kids to participate but it is very discouraging when 5 kids show up out of 140 students and there 3 of there parents do not want to participate. Hey better five kids than none though.
My missionn is to be caring, loving, open minded and encouraging to all children so as to help them to grow and succeed to their highest potential.
To ensure the success of the student that I have choosen to focus on I will work one on one with her in the areas she is weak in. I will meet with and work with her parents so they know what is expected of her age group.I will meet with other teachers to get fresh ideas. I will do all that I can to see this child succeed.
Hey Mr. Chris... I was thinking about the obesity. Way back when I was in school, we had PE 5 days a week 3/4 of the year. The other quarter we always had health. I can't remember seeing a lot of obese people. Now, we don't even have PE after 5th grade on a weekly basis. What can we do to change the laws? I know, this would require hiring more PE teachers. But you know what? I would rather my tax dollars go to that than pay for Joe Smith to have multiple surgeries because he is obese and must take multiple meds for his conditions. I am all for helping those in need, but let's teach these children how to fish instead of handing them a plate. (If you give a man a fish, he eats for a day. If you teach a man to fish, he eats for life.)
My mission this year is different from years before in that I am no longer in a classroom - at all. As a library assistant I feel my mission is to assist in running an efficient, organized, and clean library. As a bus driver, my mission is to ensure the students safe transport to and from school. And in my RTI group I feel my mission is to expose students to the research opportunities of the world wide web, to teach them to utilize basic technology resource (such as MicrosoftWord), to introduce completing assignments as a team, and most of all to help them realize the potential they all possess as individuals.
Mr. Chris, as someone who is not yet a parent, I appreciate your passion for the health of your students. In the midst of all the politics and being told what you have to teach everyday, it is clear that you are still aware of the needs of your students and strive daily to meet those needs.
To Amigo:
That's a great idea to have PE Parent Nights. Have you thought about joining in with grade levels and being a part of their Parent Nights? You all could coordinate it so that you could demonstrate/speak to parents/students. Other specialists could join you as well. Or you could opt to make a presentation during PTO. I've not seen anything like that done I don't think. Specialists are important in a child's life too.
Tiffany
RPP
Mission - To prepare our students for kindergarten. To teach them ABC's, numbers, rhymes, sorting, etc.; all of the different things they will need to do when they begin kindergarten. Also, to teach/help them socialize with their peers, help them work out disagreements with each other, and to help them understand that they will need to learn to follow directions from other adults, not just their parents/guardians.
Steps for Student Success - To work with students in center time, circle time, outside, on the bus - wherever we are that I see as an opportunity to reinforce what we are learning in the classroom. This will help them to see that what we do in the class is useful outside of class also. I can also help the students encourage learning by having some of the students that are better at one thing to help the others that may be struggling.
Response to Mr. Chris - I agree with you that we need to get more kids interested in playing outside instead of sitting inside in front of a computer or playing a video game. We need to show them how much more fun it is to play these games in person with other people!
My mission goes beyond my title as a teacher asst. As as asst. I am here to help the teachers be able to teach, sometimes by doing some of the detail work. Bulletin boards, copies, bathroom duty, lunch and recess. Basically anything that they need me to do. I am also here to be a stable adult in the kids lives...way to many don't have that at home. But, for me...I am here because I love the kids. I can't imagine not having them in my life. So, for me it is my personal mission to love them. They know that they can always come to me for a hug, and I know that it is important for them. But the truth is that it is just as important to me. I need these kids as much as they need me.
I think that pulling kids for small groups and/or one on one is one way to help children succeed. They need alot of encouragement when they do make progress. Self confidence goes a long way with anyone, especially kids.
My mission statement goes along with Ms. Moore... It is my goal every day to brighten someones life..child or adult. So many of the children that we come in contact with here have to endure so many obstacles. It is my goal to be a positive, loving person that they know they can trust.. and can help them to be the best they can be!
Bender CFE: To provide my students with a variety of learning experiences that will meet the diverse learning styles of all my students. To make sure that each and every day all of my students are staying connected to the content material being taught. To create an environment where students will foster an intrinsic appreciation for the value of education through reading in all content areas. To help students realize their potential and make the connection that through an education they can make their dreams come true. That every child, no matter what their ethnicity, economic background or past academic achievement level, has the capability to be what ever they choose to become.
Bender CFE: To provide my students with a variety of learning experiences that will meet the diverse learning styles of all my students. To make sure that each and every day all of my students are staying connected to the content material being taught. To create an environment where students will foster an intrinsic appreciation for the value of education through reading in all content areas. To help students realize their potential and make the connection that through an education they can make their dreams come true. That every child, no matter what their ethnicity, economic background or past academic achievement level, has the capability to be what ever they choose to become.
Bender CFE: I am willing to collaborate with my colleagues to gather the most effective teaching materials in order to achieve academic success for all my students. Ex: Asking the media specialist for books needed for a research project, planning a technology lesson with the computer specialist. Also, getting enrichment lessons/material from the AIG teacher. Also, having students teach each other by pairing a lower level learner with a higher level student. To help students understand that they can make their dreams come true and become whatever they choose I would have them research a person in that line of work so that they know what it takes to achieve that position.
My mission statement is to teach my children to the best of my ability and use all resources available to me to accomplish the highest achivement and growth with all of my students.
As an educator I am willing to participate in classes at the university and locally to help my students achieve their goals. I am also willing to do researcha and collabrate with other educators to get the best answers and results for my students. Also extra training I think is necessary to take my students to the next level or education and myself to the next level of teaching and educating.
CFES
My mission, as a 3rd grade teacher, is to provide rich, learning experiences to my students that are based on the NCSCOS. My goal is to make learning enjoyable, thus motivating students to become life-long learners who are intrinsically motivated.
To achieve this, I must use differentiation strategies to encourage student growth in the areas that will have the most impact on the student's education. I must collaborate with other teachers, counselors, the principals, and other colleagues for resources and strategies. I also will participate in workshops that provide strategies to help me achieve student success. Technology integration, as well as cross-curricular instruction are key elements which support my mission and student success.
To: Adams at RPP
I agree with you whole heartedly. Students have so many complications in their lives these days that interfere with their learning. Sometimes school is the only safe place for them. It may be the heating/air system, a warm meal, or a kind word that makes a difference to these children. It is easy to see why learning is not the first priority for students who may be lacking in their basic emotional and physical needs. My heart breaks for those students and I wish that I as a teacher and mother could give them more...
Response to Tiffany and to Bogan: I like both of your comments, really hiting the nail on the head with the health fitness idea. i am fortunate to be able to get exercise during the day at school, kids see me and are always asking me how far did yourun (or ride), did youswim today, can I go running with you, etc. We tried for three years in a row to get a faculty fitness program going, but it kind of fell off as people got busy with the holidays. As for myself, I have recieved numerous sport and fitness grants (and always have a couple in progress), have given many workshops (even Bogan came to one on frisbee!), have contributed many articles to the Post and Chronicle, have presented at state conferences, raised thousands of dollars for Jump Rope for Heart, administered the health related fitness test, contribute regularly to the principals newsletter, send hundreds of positive referrals home, downplay videp games and promote play! All to get these students to realize the benefits of health related fitness and lifelong activity. It is a state mandate that PE is required for only one year in HS, then can be taken as an elective. There are just too many other things out there that are taking it's place. I will tell you, as Elementary PE rep for the county, you have some excellent teachers out there. Even some teachers out of the field are doing things, like the ladies here who are sponsoring Girls on the Run. Now, Tiffany, I want you to get a regular fitness program going for yourself, set a goal (a five K run?), gather some friends and colleagues together, and go for it!
CFE Sikes
My mission as a reading teacher is to provide a caring environment in which all students, of all ability levels to reach their highest potential, and learn the literacy skills necessary to be successful, productive citizens.
Question Number 2
I am willing to take just about any step to make sure my students reach academic success. This requires many things on my part. Communication with parents is crucial! School and home must be on the same page in order for a student to be successful. I am always willing to meet with parents to discuss their concerns and possible solutions to problems their child may be facing. It is also important to use all of the resources available at the school. This includes EC teachers, assistants, AIG specialists and specialists. I am thrilled to have the chance to work with Mrs. Handline to get some new strategies to use with my students! Profession development will also help me help my students. Trends in education are constantly changing and there are so many new techniques that address multiple intelligences!
Adjusting my instruction is also something that constantly needs to be done to help all of my students be successful. Small groups allow me to meet the needs of all students and also help me to challenge my higher level students. We are unable to change the curriculum and the learner but we can change our methods of instruction. We must teach to all of the different learning styles. This mean differentiation in all subjects!
To Adams RPP
I love how your mission was to brighten someone's day! So many of our kids come from situations that are hard for us to imagine. Sometimes we are the only smiling faces they see! I believe relationships are key to academic success. If a student doesn't trust his/her teacher, they will not reach their full potential!
My mission is to help students develop a love for reading, a reading habit and the skills necessary to become lifelong learners.
I strive to provide all students with equal access to media resources. I work hard to ensure we have materials that 1) meet the personal interests and educational needs of students of various abilities and backgrounds, 2) supplement the NCSCOS in all curricular areas, and 3) meet the instructional needs of our teachers.
I work to encourage students to develop a love of reading and a reading habit. I plan reading programs and promotions to get kids excited about reading and focus our students and staff on books and reading.
I work with students individually and in groups to identify, find, evaluate and use information that meets their personal and educational needs. I believe these are essential skills for lifelong learning.
I believe a love of reading and the ability to seek out and use information are valuable tools that will last a lifetime.
In response to T. Moore – RPP – I liked what you said about being a stable adult in the lives of our students and I completely agree. The children need adults they can count on, who can help them grow, and guide them to becoming self confident individuals. They need to know people are watching out for them and care about them. And, I think the more loving, caring adults they have around them, the better off they will be! Again, it takes a village…
1. My mission is to create an open, inviting environment for students to experiment and experience music. I want to introduce children to all the various types of music, musical instruments, dance, and allow then to feel comfortable with self expression. Not all students are gifted in sports or academics, but perhaps music can be their place to shine.
2. I also try to use music to enhance academic growth. Music can be key to improving math skills, encourage higher level thinking skills, reinforce sight words,and understanding history and culture. I have tried to collaborate with classroom teachers on various themes such as "the science of sound" or a unit on dinosaurs. Music in the primary school is not a graded or tested subject area, but I feel it is important to use this time to enhance to core subject matter.
To Tanya House: I appreciate what you said about intrinsically motivating students to become lifelong learners. Obviously if they don't enjoy school, they will not be as successful or likely to stick with it. It is so important for them to have something that motivates them - whether it is a caring teacher, a love of reading, or success in sports or music.
My mission is to guide, teach and support students and teachers with behavior management, thus making the classroom a safe and productive place to learn and teach.
To achieve my mission, the number one thing that I have to do is develop a relationship with the student struggling with behaviors. I can not ask a student to change and take responsiblity for his actions if there is no trust or bond between us.
As I build a relationship with the student it is easier for me teach replacement behaviors and coping strategies. I am also here to support the teachers. Their job is made even more difficult having to deal with a problem student. Any support I can give them allows them to go back to their main goal of teaching.
My personal mission as "Mr. Cub Cave" is to provide students who have issues concerning their behavior with behavior modification techniques as well as increase their knowledge concerning character education. It is also my desire to decrease behavior issues school wide in the classroom setting. I want to be able to instruct students on how to make good choices as well as maintaining control of neagtive emotions while in a classroom setting.
For question 2, it is very important that students who make bad choices understand what they did wrong and how they could have chosen another avenue so that they could remain in a classroom setting to receive instruction. I really attempt to make sure students are in the classrooms receiving instruction from their teacher after their behavior has been addressed because being in the classroom is very conducive to reaching academic success.
In response to Paula's comment, I believe that it is a good idea to collaborate with other educators in our area.
In response to Hudson. I agree that kids need a love for and the skills for reading. I can't think of anything I do that doesn't require reading.
To CFE Sikes: I so agree that relationships are key for a child to reach full academic potential. In order to achieve academic success, many students need behavior and social skills training. Negative behaviors impede learning and the learning of other students and can change the whole dynamic in the classroom.
In order for my students to be successful I have to work closely with the teachers, counselors, outside agencies and especially the parents. Parents get very discouraged and often need training and strategies to use at home.
In response to Hudson. I agree that kids need a love for and the skills for reading. I can't think of anything I do that doesn't require reading.
My mission is to inspire all children to grow and develop as readers, not just for one day in May but for life...I want to ensure that they become lifelong readers and therefore lifelong learners.
In order to achieve this, I model my own love of reading and provide opportunity for students to interact with many different types of books to ignite an enthusiasm for reading within them. If that happens it helps everything else fall into place. I also want to communicate with all involved, and listen to the student so I know if the steps I am taking are effective. I would do whatever it took to help a student become a successful reader.
Tiffany Smith...
I agree that supporting one another is extremely important and something we often forget to do or don't take the time to do. We need to remember it takes each and every one of us, and we need to get rid of all the boundaries we put up.
Linda Eakins RPP Chapter 2 Question 1
Lifelong Educator
I am an educator. I am passinate about supporting the growth and education of others-in whatever context that might be(student,parent,co-worker, or family. I believe in empowerment.
In relationships with my co-workers, supervisors,and my students. I will strive to be humble,considerate,honest, kind, forgiving, and wise. Each day I will say something kind to , and about someone else; thank those who have helped me, and do something kind for someone else. I value and keep my word. In everything I do, I will be guided by my values and shall give it my interest, my enthusiasm, my passion, and most importantly, myself. I will strive, always, to encourage and support the dreams and aspirations of others, learn about others, and contribute to the betterment of my community.
Question 2
The steps that I intend to take to ensure academic success is to hold myself accountable for all the above daily. In doing that I can create and warm and postive place for all around me to learn and grow. When people feel valued and appricated it inspires them to value education in and out of the classroom. This will inturn make our communities better places to live. The academic success comes much easier when it is valued by the person directly involved in the learning.
In response to CFES House:
I am totally in agreement with your mission statement. I think that as educators we should always do our best to create life long learners. Even after students leave the 3rd grade it is the job of every teacher they have from that point on to do the same.
My mission statement throughout my whole career has been simple. It is: "All children can and have the right to learn!" Children come in with varied backgrounds, previous experiences and lifestyles. They come with different beliefs and ability levels. I feel my job is to take them from their current starting point/level (no matter how advanced or not as advanced)and propel them forward as far as we can go in a year. It is a growing personal education journey. I would love for all of my students to fit in the "black and white" on-grade level expectations or surpass them, but unfortnately that isn't always going to happen. But, that doesn't mean educational growth and learning hasn't occured. I try to focus on the child as an individual and take into account their overall successes (educational, personal, and social).
The steps I take to accomplish this are: following our state standard course of study and county guidelines, use research based programs and strategies to focus on weak areas for remedation or acceleration, engage in small group time, communicate with parents, and I try to make learning FUN!! Our school uses research-based programs that are mandated, I incorporate small group for one-on-one remediation/acceleration and I keep in contact with parents about our weekly curriculum.
My FUN tidbit about learning that I try to incorporate daily: If you feel like you're playing and enjoying the activity, you may not even realize the hardwork you're doing or the learning that is taking place!
1. My personal mission for our students is to provide a comprehensive, standards-based course of study which will allow them to become musically literate.
2. Yes, our mission is to achieve academic success and we need to address the needs of the whole child. I will provide a variety of musical experiences designed to address the individual learning styles and intelligences. I provide hands-on experiences every day, and make lessons relevant to each child. Going back to "It takes a village"...I involve the community as much as possible, believing that our students need as much exposure to different situations as we can give them. The people in our community also need to see and hear our students to know that they are there, and just how wonderful they are. We participate in fall and spring festivals, school and community concerts and parades. I will write grants, seeking additional funds to ensure student success. I will collaborate with other teachers, parents, bus drivers, cafeteria workers and custodians.
1. My mission as an Excpetional Childrens' teacher is to provide my students will fair access to their grade level curriculum. I offer them multiple ways to learn concepts and design (and co-design) lessons that will engage and motivate them. I have high expectations for my students, and I strive for them to have ownership in their own success.
2. Steps for Student Success- Of course, communication is a key component to success of all students. I believe in, as most of us do, in contacting parents about the positive things their child is doing, not just when they are struggling.
I am also willing to think outside the box when it comes to lesson organization. For example, in reading this month we are doing skill specific centers that offer peer teaching, small group instruction, independent work, and hands on learning. That may not seem "out of the box" for the younger grades, but in a regular 3rd grade classroom of 23 it takes a lot of planning, organization, and PATIENCE to manage centers. I just have to say that that is why co-teaching/inclusion is such a beautiful thing.
I am also willing to go to trainings/workshops to learn new ideas and techniques that will help my students reach academic success.
To Paula K.
I agree with you about using all resources possible to help your students be successful and to educate yourself to become more knowledgeable. Learning is a lifelong skill and process. Hopefully, by us being role models of this skill, it trancends to our students!
1. My mission is to carry out the needed operational strategies to fulfill the school's mission by inspiring, encouraging, nurturing and motivating each child in all aspects of life.
2. The steps I will take to make sure my students reach academic success are to maintain open communication with students, families, and colleagues. I will also participate in professional development and differentiate my lessons.
J. Weiss RPP
1. My personal mission for the job that I currently have is "Reach One to Teach One"
RAMS- Respect,Attitude,Manners,Safety
2. The steps I will take to make sure my students reach academic success is to provide a meaningful,
nuturing and motivating atmosphere.
T.Caison RPP
My Mission for my students begins with meeting our county and state standards toward basic and important learning. While our concrete testing is essential, it is the higher level learning that will continue to sustain each student at his or her own ability level.
Each student’s educational experience must meet a sense of relevancy for his or her world right now, and the future.
One of my goals for my students is to impart our own country's diversity, encouraging them to appreciate our differences as well as our likenesses. That awareness will hopefully develop in understanding and respecting the world’s diversity as they move through the education process, and mature. My responsibility is to not only meeting the standards of education but to teach each student how to continue the learning process through their own discovery. Education includes the ability to find information not only memorize.
Steps needed to take for achieving my mission, include collaboration, with parents, classroom staff, bus drivers, lunch staff, after school care. That communication is intended to allow me to understand the many sides of a student. My own communication with each student also gives me important information about how I need to meet needs.
My professional education, to keep up with any new research that may enlighten a research-based technique for reaching learners is important.
We have all seen students who may not be getting the nutrition they need. I must make sure that breakfast is eaten either at home or school and that a snack has got nutritional value, and is not just sugar. While education needs are met, sleep is also a huge issue with a small number of families. It is these kinds of communications that need to be handled with respect for offering families proactive ideas and not criticism. To be able to work with families on their child’s academics, nutrition, sleep and exercise may be one of the most challenging but productive achievements we can accomplish, toward reaching eager learners.
My mission is to provide experiences for my students that will foster their academic, social, and emotional growth.
I believe that in order to accomplish that mission, there are many necessary steps! Communication and collaboration are probably the most important! As educators we must communicate with the parents and students in hopes of establishing a relationship that will encourage everyone's commitment. We also need to collaborate with others (administration, guidance counselor, EC, ELL, specialists, nurse, and anyone involved with that child at the school level) to develop the most effective goals and strategies for that student. It also takes very careful planning, assessing, reflection, and creativity to create lessons/activities that will promote success in all areas. I must grow as a teacher if I expect my students to show growth. Therefore, I must continually seek to improve my skills. Above all, I believe that I must give my students a reason to want to be successful. I have to let them know that I believe in them even if no one else in their lives does.
To CBishop @ RPP
I agree with you 100%. We always need to keep in mind where our students begin. All that we can truly expect from our students is that they try their hardest and continue to make growth. We can't expect all students to end up at the same place when they have all started from different places. We have to treat them and teach them as the individuals that they are!
I feel my mission is to make learning as real and enjoyable an experience I can. To help my students find the connection they each have to the topics we are learning and see the relevance it has for them, personally. Also, I want to equip my students with the skills they need to be motivated and open to learning in their future.
Question 2
I need to take steps with each student that will enable me to know where each student finds their individual success. Through survey, one on one ineteraction, and background data I find what skill each child can feel good about, no matter if it is an academic skill or not. I then turn this skill in to a motivator, making each child know they can do some things well and will also learn skills that help them excel academically.
I would like to say, Mary Alice is on the right track. Once a child develops a "love" for reading or any other academic area, the door is open. It is crucial we find the one topic in school that can spark that inspiration. Reading paves the way for all learning and must remain an enjoyable, adventurous acquisition. What would we do without opportuniy and access???
to TMoore
I agree completely, self confidence is the key and small group work is an ideal way to enhance that confidence. I often find when I step out of the group the students can take more ownership of their learning/success.
My mission is like an old Pender County School statement: Each day, each child sucess. I this this to the point statement embodies my life long philosphy.As a long-time former EXC teacher, I firmly believed that I was tatamount in helping ensure that each student I taught experienced success in goals and objectives in some degree on a yearly, and indeed, on a daily basis. As a current kindergarten teacher, my mission has not changed. I want my students to experience success each day! As I tell my students occasionally, it's my joyous job to teach them and it is their job to be the best student they can be.
Janet Ensign
RPP
I am willing to take any steps necessay to ensure growth and development of my students and to ensure their success. I am in agreement w/ Yeuell that individual success increases and ensures motivation.I have always believed that the adage of a self fulfilling propecy is true and having high expectations for success helps students actualize those expectations and acheive their best success. It is often not easy when faced with a student who believes themself to be unsuccessful and who has many related behaviors which could inhibit their optimal learning but, in my many years experienc it is the best course a teacher can take.
Janet Ensign
RPP
I think my mission, to be specific, is different for each child. One child I will strive to have him feel comfortable enough to benefit from his experiences. Another my mission is to have her realize that some things are better off not said. But I think that as a whole, my mission is, and always has been, to help children want to find their way to being a better part of our community and society. I won't tell them how to do it, nor will I give them answers to all of their problems. I will show them what it takes to do it. I will ask them the questions that take more than a word to answer, that will make them think and wonder and imagine. How will I do this? I make them each a part of my life; a part of my family. I try to help them feel like they do matter, their thoughts and opinions are meaningful, and that you can have disappointment and learn and be better because of it. I may not know everything about a child's home life, but I know who they are with me.
#1: My mission while carrying out the NCSCOS is to provide my students with the as many diverse learning opportunities as possible, thus teaching to all learning styles.
In order to carry out this "mission" I strive to make sure my students understand that we all learn differently and that it's very important to try new things and to try approaching new concepts or problems from many angles. This helps my students who may not feel they are "keeping up" develop more confidence thus not being afraid to ask questions or to even occasionally fail at a task. I've noticed that this also helps my students develop compassion for thier peers and a willingness to help their classmates persevere.
#2: To ensure academic success for my students, I meet frequently with my colleagues to share and collect ideas. I attend content appropriate workshops and actively seek out supportive materials on line. I also make sure parents are given resources at the beginning of the year to support their child's learning at home and encourage them to come to me whenever they feel they need more support/advice/information. I also use my small group time to aggressively engage my students in activities focused solely on areas in which they need intervention(s)or enrichment.
To CBishop & TMoore:
I totally agree with you about staying focused on where a child begins and the progress he/she makes throughout the year. We often get caught up in the pressure to get all of our students on the same level that we may be overlooking the achievements they are already making. By taking the time to acknowledge those successes, we will undoubtedly boost their self confidence & self esteem which can only have a positive effect on their future successes (i.e. being more willing to take risks and push themselves to do better).
1. Each day . . . each child . . . success! I want to inspire, yes inspire a love for learning. What we do each day, affects children for life. I want all children to end the day with a positive attitude toward school, learning, and themselves. I want them to learn something new each day and I want to learn something from them each day. These are my kids and I want only the best for each one.
2. Following are the steps that I know most of us use on a daily basis.
a. Communicate, communicate, communicate - Parents can be our best supporters. They need to know what is going on as well as how they can help. We must be specific on things they can do at home. We must also make them feel WELCOME in our classroom. They are part of our team. It takes all of us.
b. Team Collaboration - Use your team members. We don't know it all, but together, we can do so much more. This also helps you to feel more supported. Good colleagues are invaluable.
c. Meet each child where they are - We do not have cookie cutter classes. Each child deserves all that we have to offer.
d. Begin on a positive note and end on a positive note - Sometimes, we are the only smile they see during the day. We may give the only hug they will receive. Just remember, how would you like for your child to be treated each day.
To TWood
I agree with you about meeting their academic, emotional, and social needs. We must remember the WHOLE child. Too many times, we focus solely on academics. We think that test scores are the bottom line. How sad would it be if we missed one of these areas? I am so glad that we work with people who REALLY want all children to succeed. We have the greatest teachers.
To Carla RPPS,
I so agree that we need to always begin on a positive note. You are right, sometimes we are the only smile some of these kids see all day. For some, school is the only nourishment they have period; whether it be nutritional, social, love, or academic. It is important to know this fact and embrace these kids as if they were our own while they are with us. Even when the students are driving me crazy... they are good kids, and I love them. I wouldn't want anything less for my own child when he goes to school.
My personal mission is to greet each child every day with a smile and a hello. To be sensitive to how they are feeling as soon as they get out of their car. I seek to help sooth any bad feelings before entering the building. Next is to spend the time they come to remediation class giving them the little extra attention they may need to grasp what they may be missing in a big class setting. To watch the light bulbs come on is a mission I work towards everyday.
The steps I’m willing to take are to go the extra mile in the morning and stop kids who seem to be having a bad morning, and try to help solve the problems. Sometimes it’s as simple as a hug; maybe they forgot something, or just listening when they’ve had a bad morning at home. In remediation class I have teachers fill out forms each 9wks to help me know what areas the student needs help in. Study the software and research math and reading programs on the internet to find fun ways to learn. Work with each child individually as much as possible to make sure they get the extra help they need.
In response to Ensign
I also am willing to take any step nessary to help any child at any time.
Bender and Wood at CFE both talked about how collaboration is so important and I agree with them. Teachers who are willing to share what they have in the way of materials and what they have learned can benefit students, staff members and parents alike. I also liked what Christy at CFE said. She is willing to go to any lengths to help a child learn and that is what it takes. We can complain all day about how parents don't help, no one works with the students, they come in so low...all of that may be true, but we must be willing to go beyond that to reach each and everyone. A former principal of mine said that parents are not keeping their good children at home; they are sending us the best they have. It makes no difference how they come to us; we must be willing to move them forward as far as is humanly possible. Donna, RPP
My personal mission is to help the students in my school live up to their full potential. I would do this by teaching the NCSCOS to the best of my ability, modeling good character, and maintaining high expectations for each of them.
TLaBor@CFE
My personal mission is to help the students in my school live up to their full potential. I would do this by teaching the NCSCOS to the best of my ability, modeling good character, and maintaining high expectations for each of them.
TLaBor@CFE
To ensure my students reach academic success I plan to teach the NCSCOS, use assessments as a guide to future teaching, hold high expectations for each of my students, and work with colleagues and parents to fine tune my teaching for each individual student.
TLaBor@CFE
This response is for amigo at RPP-I think you are right about getting kids active when they are young and still enjoy it. Having PE nights for students and family is a great idea. Parents and their children can learn skills and behaviors they can practice together, not just on one night but in the future. Many of our parents do not have/take the opportunity to spend enough time with their children and this is an enjoyable and beneficial way for them to do it. I understand the frustration about having so few parents attend school functions (even the fun ones!). But don’t give up! You never know what a difference you may make in the lives of the parents you do have the opportunity to meet.
TLaBor@CFE
My mission as a reading teacher is to reach all of my students in a way that is positive, understanding, and fair. The clssrom needs to be a place that a students looks forward to coming, a place that fosters learning in a way that is fun. We all know that if we make learning fun, the students are more likely to retain that information. I also want my students to feel safe and important because I might be the only bright spot in their day.
Janie @ RPP says:#1: My personal mission is "Kindergarten is a Journey, not a race!" #2: In order to meet academic success for all, I make the most of each moment by giving students memorable learning experiences that will carry the learning home, on the bus, in a grocery store or riding in a car. Every child has a different way of learning and my job is to teach to their personal learning style in small group or one on one. Games are a great resource that I use daily in my classroom. Songs we sing are embedded with vocabulary and content that help the brain make important connections and reinforce the learning. Communicating with parents is key. I send home materials that are easy to use such as flashcards, games, etc. My classroom family is a caring, friendly community that loves to read, sing, play and solve problems.
In order to carry out my "mission" I will stay on top of my game by following the NCSCOS as well as attend conferences, workshops etc. I will also use differentiation in my classroom. None of us have a classroom in which everyone learns at the same pace or in the same way. That is where differentiation comes in. It is vital in our students learning.
I will also collaborate with colleagues. This is very important because we can learn so much from each other and we all have great ideas. Unless we share, we never know.
Finally, when I see my students first thing in the morning I greet them with a smile and try to carry that through all day long. I tell them to believe in themselves as well as help them build confidence in themelves. I am in this profession because of the students and I think that we all need to step back at times and remember no matter what, these children need us.
My mission this year is to help the children not only prepare for kindergarten, but also to instill in them a love for learning that will stay with them throughout their academic careers. Perhaps the most important years in a child's education are the early years in which their philosophies of learning are formed. Knowing that, it is my mission to help them form a philosophy that will help them not only acquire new knowledge, but apply the knowledge they are acquiring.
In order to succeed I plan to start by expanding my own knowledge of children and how they learn, then applying that to classroom practices as I assist my lead teacher in her classroom actitivies. I also believe that developing close working relationships with my students, their families, and my co-workers create a caring and inviting environment that enhances the children's learning experience.
I agree with Mr. Amigo, that physical activity should be viewed as fun, I believe that it should be every teachers mission to provide their children with a healthy level of activity considering the rising levels of obesity in our society.
To TWood CFE & HeatherP RPP:
RIGHT ON!!! There are demanding pressures from local and state requirements and not to mention the pressure and expectations we put on ourselves as educators. So, we do have to step back and applaud our successes and the milestones we have helped make in the lives of these children. The whole time hoping we are one small part in the development of the productive human being they are becoming!! :)
My mission as an EC Teacher is to make sure that every child meets their IEP goals based on state standards. Unfortunately sometimes the environment that they live and/or learn in is not conducive to meeting their individual needs. Therefore my realistic goal for them is that they grow academically, mentally, and emotionally. MY hope is that they will be better off in June than they were in August. I will use any resource available to me to help meet that goal parent input, volunteers etc...
In response to Carolyn Lunsford, I agree that motivation is the foundation for teaching a child to read and enjoy it. I am an avid reader myself and if it wasn't for my parents taking me to the library and modeling reading I wouldn't be who I am today. I also had wonderful teachers who inspired me to read and I am grateful to them for that.
As an ESL teacher I am currently working with a very high at risk drop-out population. Although we are making great progress at the elementary and middle school levels as far as EOG scores are concerned. I feel I am not doing enough in getting the message across to our ELL's of how important it is for them to finish high school and possibly go on to college. My mission is to have a greater effect on the ELL's so that they fear the aspects of higher education.
Unfortunately being smart is just a small part of being acedemically successful for our ELL's. My goal will be to make these students more successful.I will start with motivation,and with a sense of worth. The sooner I can make this connection with these students the better our chances that these students will succeed in school on a academic and social level
In response to Carla, I totally agree that we can learn so much from our students. I really had not thought about that, but it is so true. When I think about our students' interests, I always try to identify with them and begin on their level. We should begin and end on a positive note. Communication, collaboration, and meeting each child where they are, are all key elements to success in teaching and learning!
To TWood CFE:
You are so right about making sure that the kids know that we believe in them. Way to many don't have enough or any positive influence in their lives. As a child it is hard to believe in yourself if no one else does. That is why we as educators are so important. Our job is not only to teach them academics, but also self worth!
1. I teach kids at the very beginning of their academic career - Pre-k! My personal mission is to give these children the skills to be socially aware, to become problem-solvers and give them the base for the academics they are going to learn in the coming years.
2. There are many steps I will take to achieve this mission. Through modelling and teaching, the children will learn the words they need to say when they need something from the teacher or another child. I use the Second Step program to help the children become problem solvers and gain empathy for their fellow classmates. So, hopefully by the end of the year, the children will be caring and independent little citizens.
We do many academics in pre-k. It has almost become like Kindergarten. The kids will be writing their name, recognizing many letters and letter sounds, rhyming, counting and recognizing numbers, patterning, sequencing, sorting, plus much more by the end of the year. To build on these skills, I attend many workshops, use idea books, utilize the internet, plus collaborate with my colleagues to get many ideas. I reflect on my lessons on whether they were a success or need a little tweaking.
I am always gaining new knowledge and trying to add on to my lessons to make the kids the best they can be!
Amy Leister RPP
In response to Carla's comment, I always say that I am also learning from these children. They truly help me remember to always appreciate the little things in life. Because those little things become the big things in the long run. I love seeing their little eyse light up when they realize they can do something new or they know the answer. THEY teach US every day!
Amy Leister RPP
Carla RPP
I love it when you said that you need to meet the child where they are. This proves the diversity in our classrooms. We need to understand where they are are get them to a point where they can be successful. I also like that you begin and end on a positive note. That is something that from the very beginning I have done. This is vital to our students.
1) As a teacher of Exceptional Children, my mission is to do everything in my control to help my student's master both academic and functional goals. Also, it is my mission to allow my student's to be mainstreamed with their typical peers whenever it's suitable.
2) In order to assure academic success, I am willing to stay longer hours and buy necessary supplies to make academics more interesting and rewarding! I am also willing to speak to the necessary people and fight for my student's rights to be mainstreamed, when suitable.
1. My mission is to be everything I can be for my students in order for them to be everything they can be.
2. I will provide anything that I possibly can to help my students reach their educational goals. I will help in every area they need help in, so that they will not fall behind.
In response to: T.Wood
It's nice to see that others also understand that all students are different and will reach academic/emotional milestones at different times. In special education, this is especially important. Most important is to maintain your patience while working with individual student's to reach their goals.
Mrs. Lee (RPP)said:
#1: My personal mission is: “Every Day, Every Way, Do All that You Can To Succeed!”
#2: We do all that we can to reach and teach every child in our room. I have learned that Kindergarten is hands on and minds on. We use all kinds of manipulatives when introducing each concept. We guide and model, model, model. If they don’t understand something, we work until they do. We never give up. We have high expectations and give them time to work on the things they need to work on.
My missions statement is very simple-I want to be the person for each student in my class that I am supposed to be. That means that I have many roles to fill. To one student I might be the only person that hugs them while to another I might be the teacher that gives them the opportunity to get their hands dirty making playdough or sitting down & realizing that other words begin with the same letter as their name.I pray every day that I make a difference in each of my kids lives.
As for the steps-I am willing to go that extra mile for each of my students. I want to help them understand that this is just the beginning & that they will be learning a lot more than what I am teaching them. I will do my best to teach all of my students the social skills that are needed to become productive 'little' members of society as well as the academic skills needed to go on to Kindergarten. I will try to better myself by attending workshops & collaborating with other teachers to get new ideas. I will also try to work with their parents as closely as possible to ensure their success.
And I totally agree with Hudson from CFE. I think that more & more kids are not being pushed to learn a love for reading. I think that this is a skill that is so important. I also agree with teaching them how to find information on their own. So many children now are not willing to look for things on their own. I think that if we teach them how to find answers & handle problems on their own the world will be a better place.
I believe it takes a village... to educate a child. To me this means it takes the parents, teachers, administration, and all other support staff to scaffold each child into a successful student. A child can't just be dumped into a class and wha-la, you have a highly successful, self motivated learner. They have to feel safe, motivated and successful. To achieve this the child must feel that their parents support the school, the school is warm and inviting, and their teacher is excited and enthusiastic about helping them learn.
Personally I will do just about anything to help students succeed academically. I strongly believe in differentiating instruction and independent work. I don’t know how you can get anything accomplished if the task the student is doing isn’t on their level. I will also make my room inviting by greeting the student each morning and listening to the stories they want to share with me. I will make sure that parents feel they can contact me and that I am available to help them in any way too if needed. I will pull students 1 on 1 to work with them based on their needs. I will seek out resources and collaborate with other teachers and specialists, I will continue to be a student myself, always seeking to learn new ways to meet student needs. To tell you the truth, I would probably stand on my head if I thought it would get a child to succeed.
To Greenoe: I totally agree that it is the teacher’s model of love for education that is inspiring to children. Kinda like Mrs. Moore said, children are seeking a stable adult role model in their life. For a lot of them that may be their teacher. What a powerful position that puts us in. Not only to shape their minds but also who they may grow up to be. I also agree with you Greenoe, it is important to listen to what children are saying and use it to guide what we are doing.
1.My mission statement as a second grade teacher would be to provide a loving,compassionate and caring classroom where students aren't intimdated to express their feelings and thoughts. I am a teacher who truly cares about her students futures and do all I can to help them achieve their highest expectations. I want to help them become successful and productive adults. It is important to make learning not only fun but also interesting.
2.I am willing to take any steps necessary to ensure my students get everything they need. I communicate with parents,specialists,bus drivers, past teachers and coworkers. I am constantly looking for new ideas to help my students that are struggling with a new topic. I pull from old programs that were strong in an area and use them if need be. We have a parent night in the fall to help our parents understand the expectations of second grade. Anything I can do I will for my students.
From Janie @ RPP:
To Holly Harrison:
I totally agree with meeting the children at their level and making them feel important. When students feel safe, they are ready to tackle the learning that needs to take place!
My personal mission statement is that all kids get a quality education in a socially and psychologically nurturing environment. That I want my school and my county to compete globally for the future jobs that will need to be filled. As a teacher assistant, I feel that kids need to be inspired even if they cannot get it at home.
Mr. Chris, CFE:
100 % agreed. Obesity is a huge problem for our culture. Let's make the kids aware of this through good nutrition, physical exercise and mental stamina.
BullardRPP-
1. I think as a teacher I have one mission, but have many ways of completing that mission. My mission is to encourage, edify and educate each child that walks into my door.
2. Academic success is acheived as a team: the child, the teacher, the family, the administration and any other factors that impact a child. As a teacher, I get to know the students (weaknesses/ strengths), build their confidence, provide differentiated instruction, speak with colleagues/families, use outside resources, attend workshops, use our guidance counselor...anything to see a child succeed and grow! Communication with other teachers is one key for me, because my colleagues are extremely encouraging! They may have other ideas or offer other support that I may need.
Communication with the families of the student are my other important factor. I really try to keep the family connected to what we are learning in class and what concepts their child may be struggling or growing in! I also make sure I communicate with the actual student to let them know what is going on.
@HollyGreenoe:
Yes! We absolutely MUST model what we want our children to accomplish. We cannot 'speak' [through body language], "Do as I say, not as I do". When they see you enjoy education and learning, they usually follow suit.
In my classrooms, I follow the mission that is stated by PCS for the gifted education program which is to facilitate student growth and learning over time so that each child's potential is developed to its maximum. Teaching kids to explore, research, design, create, present, write, and construct is a rewarding process because you can watch children develop talents not typically seen in the regular classroom.
Katherine Kochakji
Todd S, CFE
My mission is to earn respect by giving respect. If I form a trusting relationship with my students then they will be willing to listen, work hard, and do what is expected of them. If I model a calm and positive demeanor while handling problems, then I will have a calm and positive classroom. My mission is to help children feel good about who they are, so they can have the courage to reach their potential.
My mission is to provide access to students and staff to the growing collection of all educational and recreational print and electronic resources available to them in our media center, computer lab, and throughout the school. The purpose of our media center is also to educate all students in the use of available electronic and print resources and in the information skills and critical thinking skills required to place them at an educational advantage as life-long learners for the future.
I am willing to do just about anything to make books attractive and fun to my students. I am willing to entertain by singing, dancing, and even "doing the voices" to make a book come alive. I am willing to help my students to see the value of print as well as technology and to show them how the two can be integrated. I am willing to do what I can to support and collaborate with administrators and classroom teachers to provide all our students with a variety of print and technology resources as well as a strong understanding of how to use them to succeed in the 21st century.
To CFE Sikes: I was reading about what you are willing to do. I agree that sometimes we have to just meet our students where they are and go from there. There are times when we have to deal with issues that are not necessarily academic first before a child can even begin to concentrate on learning. There are times when we have to be willing to take a moment to be nurturers and counselors before we can be the educators.
MInsco CFE
My personal mission as a third grade reading teacher is to become the best facilitator of learner that I possibly can be. To me this means having a positive impact on my students, having a respectable and working relationship with the parents of my students and my coworkers. I also have the personal goal of gaining more knowledge in my subject area. To achieve these goals I will continue my own education, seek assistance from other teachers and coworkers, and work closely with our ESL teacher and literacy coach.
Among the steps I am willing to take to ensure student success are furthering my education as needed, to reach out to others for guidence and assistance including having other teacher model practices they use that I may not have thought about, flexible grouping of my students depending on assessments given, recognizing problem areas and implementing interventions as soon as problems bcome apparent. I also believe that many of our parents want to help their students succeed as well and reaching out to these parents may be a valuable resource to ensure the success of my students.
To or'Ac at RPP from MInsco CFE - I believe some of the most influencial people in a school sometimes are not the teachers at all but the ones that ask about the books they students want to read, make sure they are there, and inform the students of other types of books they may want to read. As a librarian, (and a bus driver) you often have the opportunity to show the students that there is someone other than teachers on their side, keeping them safe, as you said.
To T. Moore at RPP from MInsco CFE
I like your comments about being a stable adult for the students. I agree, many of these students do not have good role models, or even good home lives. My class last year more so than this year proved this. I think we show the students that there is a place where they can relax and be safe and learn. Sometimes we not only have to teach the objectives, but also life lessons. This can be challenging and can wear on you, but it is a fact and to be a good teacher (no matter what your position at the school) I think understanding that makes you a better role model for all of our students.
To T. Moore at RPP from MInsco CFE
I like your comments about being a stable adult for the students. I agree, many of these students do not have good role models, or even good home lives. My class last year more so than this year proved this. I think we show the students that there is a place where they can relax and be safe and learn. Sometimes we not only have to teach the objectives, but also life lessons. This can be challenging and can wear on you, but it is a fact and to be a good teacher (no matter what your position at the school) I think understanding that makes you a better role model for all of our students.
1. My mission as an art teacher is to provide a safe, creative environment within which students can explore self expression and learn life skills while finding relevance to their other subjects and experiences.
2. I will take any step necessary to help our children succeed. I will continue to provide differentiated learning experiences. I will continue to correlate my lessons with other core subjects as much as possible. I will continue to encourage our children to express themselves through their artwork and writing and also to be independent and do things for themselves. I will continue to encourage development of proper social skills through teamwork. I will continue to communicate with the students, their teachers, and parents in order to gain insight and understanding into each child's needs. I will continue to learn each day and model that behavior for our students.
To Bogan RPP,
I agree with you completely when you are talking about helping children to find their own way, not by handing it to them, but showing them what it takes. All too often I have students who will not try to do something, and immediately turn and say, "Can you do this for me?" Of course my response is "No. If someone always does it for you what do you learn?" Usually the student's response is "Nothing." I tell them "Wrong. You learn that giving up is okay and it's not." Students are always asking me how I became so good at drawing and I tell them by practicing and not giving up until I got it right, and every now and then I come across a student who is determined to do something until he/she gets it right.
My personal mission for this job is simple. It's not for the money, it's not for the recognition I may one day get, it's for these babies. For me to see the light bulb go off in their little minds when they have mastered a concept wheter it be their alphabet or learning how to say their whole name, is what it is all about. I think that in this day and time to many people are out to get their fame and fortune and that's not what this job is about. This job to me is about helping these tiny little babies grow up and to teach them how to learn. We have so many kids who come into these schools not even knowing how to hold a pencil that we have a lot of work ahead of us but that's what makes it so exciting. I love not knowing what they are going to say next and I love seeing where their minds take them when we learn a new subject. It just puts a smile on my face to know that this is what I was put on this Earth to do and I feel that I do it well.
I know that I go above and beyond in trying to help my students reach academic sucess. Beyond doing the everyday differentation I have spent many nights on the phone or at their houses trying to coach their parents into different ways to help at home. I have spent much of my personal time trying to help bridge the gap between home and school with so many of my students. Beyond that I think that the best possible way to help students reach academic success is for you as the teacher to have a open and respectful relationship with their parents. If you have their trust then they are going to do what they can to help their children. I have seen parents make a complete 180 degree turn by me treating them like humans and not being ugly and demeaning to them.
T Moore-
I love what you said about you being here to be a stable adult in their lives. That is beyond true. Like you said, there are way to many kids out here that do not have the slightest bit of stablitly and that is heart wrenching. That is such an insightful comment that more people should be aware of and realize how much that does mean.
Chris,
I agree that we should do our best to help our students to be in good health. It is important that we take care of them and teach them by example. Thank you for your interest and concern and that you're working to make a difference.
My mission statement is to help every student to be the best that they can be. It will take a lot of patience and getting to know each student.
As a fifth grade teacher, my personal mission is to model a love for reading in all subject areas by showing my enthusiasm about each topic. I enjoy creating lessons that are fun with games, hands-on projects, drama, videos, choral readings, music and anything else I can incorporate to make the subject interesting, memorable, and concrete for all my students.
1. My mission as an EC teacher is to help my students and those students that are struggling be successful and feel good about themselves and their academic ability. Try to find the positive for each student no matter how trying they can be. To be the best teacher that I can be!
2. Going the extra mile for my students is what I'm willing to do. I try to be creative in the activities we do for the students to help keep their attention and make them academically rewarding. Give them 110% of me and my abilities!
To Judith:
I agree that open communication is very important. Being able to call a parent for the good things helps to open the doors even wider!
I am willing to take whatever steps are necessary to make sure my students reach academic success. First, I have found that, working with a large number of below grade level and low achieving students, many times they just need my faith and belief in them because they often don't have that for themselves. Once I show them ways to be successful, their work ethics get stronger and stronger because they realize THEY CAN DO IT! Every lesson I plan is based on the fifth grade NCSCOS. I collaborate with my teaching team, other reading teachers, (now) our new Literacy Coach, A.R. partner, and anyone else I can tie down to get help or advise. I constantly remediate students daily as I see confusion on their faces or a lack of understanding in their work products. I use formal and informal assessments to guide my instruction and take detours where necessary. I listen to parent concerns and try to offer help for students at home when necessary. I provide an inviting, yet structured and consistent environment here at school so that students feel welcomed, successful, and accountable for their learning, as well as, behavior. Students have to experience successes (even small ones) daily in order to increase their self-esteem. Once that is happening, they work harder and harder to improve and they usually succeed!
J. Philips RPP
1. My mission as a second grade teacher is to make sure each child feels welcome in my classroom. I start each day by greeting each child individually. I want them to WANT to come to school. I believe that this opens the door to make my job as a teacher easier and helps me fill my main purpose, to teach each child and help them reach THEIR fullest potential.
2. In repsonse to Holly Greenoe:
I agree that we need to make reading important, fun, and a life long process. If children become life long readers, they will become life long learners. This is easily carried out through modeling the joys of reading. By showing the knowlegde gained through reading a story, an article, etc... we are showing our class that you learn no matter your age. That is why I LOVE GOOGLE and other search engines. When I use them, I show my class that no one knows everything and that by searching and READING we can gain a wealth of knowledge.
To CarolynRPP - I like your willingness to start with students early in their education to pinpoint weaknesses and turn them into strengths. The communication with the parents is an essential tool in building students up while offering help and suggestions to be worked on at home. If that type of help continues, that child you are working with will continue to be successful all through school.
My mission as a visual arts specialist is to support each student's learning through integration of their subject matter with fine arts.
To help my student's reach academic success I will continue to:
1)Check their prior knowledge
2)Support, reteach, and enrich their knowledge
3)Provide hands-on experiences to enhance their learning through the visual arts
My mission as a teacher is to provide a caring environment in which all students feel comfortable and capable of learning. I try to inspire my classroom to function as a family: We all help and support each other and we work through conflicts. My goal is to instill values among my students that will eventually lead them to become caring, considerate adults that have compassion for other people. On the academic side, I want to provide meaningful lessons that will help my students understand the way the world works around them and how it came to be. I want to inspire them to become problem solvers and doers, to not be happy with doing the minimum to get by. I want to facilitate their learning as much as I possibly can.
The steps I take to ensure that my students to success is constantly changing and developing. I always try to communicate with as many people as I can: parents, coworkers, and outside resources (like my professors and fellow graduate students, and colleagues at other schools). I also use the internet, and anyone or anything that I think will help me help my students. I think the role of a teacher has continued to expand over the years. We are required to take on many more "hats" than ever before: mother/father, teacher, nurse, counselor, etc. I would like to think that my students leave my classroom better prepared to face the challenges in their fustures.
In response to Tanya House....That was a great response! I agree with making learning enjoyable. If it's not enjoyable at the ages we teach (& older), they'll lose interest in school. I also agree about collaborating with others to determine how we can all work together to enrich the learning of all our students.
My mission as Literacy and Title 1 Facilitator is to provide support for our RPPS family (staff, administrators, parents and students) as we work for the common goal of enriching literacy for our students.
“Each of us has a spark of life inside us, and our highest endeavor ought to be to set off that spark in one another.” – Kenny Ausubel
Some of the steps we are working on at RPPS to enrich literacy include: strengthening our professional knowledge, data analysis to guide and enhance instruction, flexible grouping to differentiate instruction, celebrating our successes and acknowledging our challenges of meeting the needs of diverse learners, taking time to reflect, and connecting learning to the real world.
To Holly Greenoe @CFE
I totally agree. Modeling your love for reading inspires children to become readers.
“There is more treasure in books than in all of the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island…And best of all, you can enjoy these riches every day of your life.” – Walt Disney
To TWood @ CFE
When you believe in them, they will be successful. After all, the best thing we bring to them is ourselves.
“Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher.” - Japanese proverb
My personal mission for the job that I do is to help each student to become successful academically and socially discovering and pursuing their dreams and aspirations.
C.Witherspoon RPP
To Weaver@CFE: I totally agree with your steps of helping a child learn.
C.Witherspoon@RPP
I want to do all aspects of my job effectively including teaching/helping students, holding meetings, paperwork, parent and teacher education/involvement, etc and believe whole-heartedly in the team approach. Collaboration is a great thing and we can learn so much from each other. I want to use all of the resources available to be able to do my job effectively and successfully.
I am willing to help students achieve academic success in whatever way(s) necessary. Children all learn differently so it is important to collaborate with teachers, parents, previous school personnel, counselors, support personnel, etc. to determine the most effective way to help these children succeed.
In response to Sutton CFE, I love that you incorporate music in your lessons. Think of how we all learn jingles/songs from the tv, radio, etc. and sing them over and over without even realizing it. Lots of children could learn/remember most anything if it could be put to music. My aunt, also a teacher, taught her son his multiplication tables by putting them to music.
Hope from RPP likes what Harrison said from CFE about having a caring environment for her students. I too try and have a smile on my face each morning for my students.
Dees@CFE:I really believe music really calms the soul in order for anyone to be able to learn.
T.Caison RPP
To Tanya @ CFE
It seems we share the same mission and the same ideas for a successful student even though we teach at different grade levels.
J. Weiss@ RRP
JHowell RPP said.. My mission is to provide each student a diverse education in a safe, supportive environment that promotes self-discipline, motivation, and excellence in learning. My team at RPP joins my parents and community to assist the students in developing skills to become independent and self-sufficient adults who will succeed and contribute responsibly in a global community. All this is driven by the NCSCOS.
JHowell RPP said...
#2: I am willing to take creative, alternative, insistent, persistent, traditional, crazy, nutzo, and inventive steps to ensure my students reach their academic goals. Those steps may look different for each child, as I seek to differentiate instruction to meet their needs. Although, truthfully, I find that very challenging! I find seeking out my colleagues' advice a CRITICAL resource in my growth as an educator. I also seek to collaborate with the families to make sure the entire team (family-school-community) is in agreement on the steps.
to Holly Greenoe at CFE from JHowell at RPP...I love that you include the word "inspire" in your mission. Think of the teachers or others in your life who truly made a difference in your life as a child. Weren't they inspirational? Mine were. Thanks for reminding me.
In response to TWood @ CFE
I agree with you. The children that pass through our classrooms need to know that we believe in them. Every child likes to know that someone is on their side and believe they can do anything they believe in.
I will work with my students and their familes to keep good communication open. I will work along with my teacher and assist in any way that I can. I believe that working with small groups is one of the many ways to help our students and give them the support needed. I would want all of my students to know that I love them and as a result of that they will know that I want the best for them. I feel they should be praised when they have done a good job and I also believe the one that may be struggling needs encouragement. We will do this one day at a time.
The mission of my school counseling program is to provide a comprehensive guidance program that will assist all students in acquiring the skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to become effective students, responsible citizens, productive workers and lifelong learners. I believe the counseling program is a service providing a vital link to the total instructional system in the school and consistent guidance curriculum based on the developmental and educational needs for every student. As many have said before, students have many obstacles in their life that prevent them from being the best learners they can be. I try my best to eliminate the obstacles so they can be focused and ready to learn.
As I stated in my previous posting, I believe I need to help eliminate obstacles to learning. Sometimes this can be as easy as being a comforting person to talk to other times it may be as challenging as bringing difficult situations to the attention of the parent or authorities. I am willing to step out of my comfort zone to benefit the student.
To CBishop @ RPP:
I love your mission statement. I think sometimes, we become so concerned about the pressures for our students to meet the expectations set by the state, that we forget to be excited about the small milestones every child makes. I have to remind myself to celebrate them sometimes and I think that is sad. The big picture is so overwhelming!
My mission statement is to teach all of my students to the best of my ability and to use all the technology and resources that I can find.
I am willing to participate in parent and college classes to help students grow. I am willing to problemsolve with other educators to help solve instructional and student problems. I think extra instruction is needed for me in technology for me to advance students to a higher educational level
I love Mrs. Havens' statement about striving for your EC students to have ownership of their own success. I feel the same way about my EC students. They work so hard and sometimes feel defeated that they are below their peers. It is so important to have them celebrate their individual successes and triumphs.
My mission as an Excpetional Childrens' teacher is to provide my students multiple opportunities to be successful and grow both academically and socially.
For my students to reach academic success I try to utilize the students interests and stregths- whether it is music or book characters, etc. We need to be willing to think across multiple intellengences and in a variety of forms. As well as willing to scrap an unsuccessful idea and start fresh. Our priority is the students, we can not be rigid in our methods.
Since I truly believe that "All children can learn," my mission as a 4th grade teacher is to promote the academic, social, and emotional growth of my students. I am passionate about what I do (even after 30+ years of doing it), and I fully accept the responsibility to nurture and motivate my students. I work hard to provide a meaningful learning atmosphere, where students can meet their fullest potential. I hope to impart my passion for reading by inspiring my reading students to grow as readers, and to be life-long readers. I strive to make lessons relevant and meaningful, and I set high expectations for all of my students.
#2
The steps I am willing to take to insure that students will be successful include:
-maintaining open communication with students and their families
-talking and sharing with colleagues
-reading professional articles, and participating in professional development activities to reassess and enhance instructional strategies that will help my students to reach their potential
-collaborating with the AIG Specialist and EC Teacher to plan differentiated activities to meet the needs students on both ends of the academic spectrum
-differentiating instruction and assignments to meet the many varied academic needs of all students I teach
-providing small group interventions using research based programs
-encouraging and supporting the goals and dreams of my students
To CBishop RPP
I am in total agreement with your mission statement! (All children can learn, and all children have the right to learn.) I think your entire mission statement is right on target. We need to focus on each child as an individual, and take into account their overall successes (educational, personal, and social).
Mandy Harrell RPPS...
My mission as a counselor is to advocate for all children. In developing the counseling center it is my mission to assist the students in developing emotionally, socially and academically. I desire to be the positive, encouraging face the students know they can always trust and rely on. I strive to ensure they know Mrs. Harrell will support them in every way, no matter what their abilities or backgrounds.
The steps I am willing to take to fulfill my position are numerous, but one that comes to mind easily, is to reach out and know all the students of RPPS. The more I know of them, the better suited I will be to address their personal needs. Knowing the dynamics of a class also help focus the character lessons for classroom guidance. I balance my schedule to enrich myself with professional development workshops. You may have to weed through different classes, but then every now and then there will be one class that just related to your school so well. One more way that comes to mind, is to act and conduct myself in a manner that will make the students feel comfortable. That sometimes means losing inhibition and acting silly. When we get too serious, learning can be hard and enjoyment can be lost.
I really agreed with Mrs. Harrison about creating and maintaining a comfortable, welcoming environment for ALL students. Let us remember to have fun. Even when discouraged about the politics of education we must ask ourselves, "How will the student remember me in their lives?" We need to make them feel successful. That means even if they score a 1 on the LOL and then achieve a 2 on the EOG for them that is success and they have grown.
To Terri RPP
Terri,
I like what you had to say about your responsibility being not only to meet the standards of education, but also to teach each student how to continue the learning process. Discovery is a wonderful means for students to find information, and to learn new things.
:-)
My mission statement is to provide a safe and risk-free learning environment in which all kids are accepted and can achieve academic growth and success regardless of their limitations.
The steps I intend to take to ensure that my students are successful are -
*create a positive and risk-free learning environment
*provide meaningful activities for students in which they can strengthen and enhance their learning
*effectively teach the necessary concepts, skills, and processes to further their mathematical understanding
*relate instruction to the "real-world" as much as possible
*hold students accountable for their learning
*assess the academic, social, and emotional needs of my students
*provide differentiated instruction to help meet their academic needs
*collaborate with colleagues to share ideas,develop plans and activities
*establish and maintain communication with parents and others involved in the wellbeing of my students
*encourage students to always do their best and learn from their mistakes
*motivate students to strive for fluency and accuracy in their work
*"exercise" their minds by providing challenging actvities
*praise and recognize students not only for their achievements but for their effort and hard work
To Amigo RPP,
I really like your idea of the PE Parent Night. Too often, as classroom teachers, we tend to focus on the academic needs of our students (because of state testing)and we forget about their physical needs. We all have a responsibility in teaching our students to take care of their bodies.
Perhaps your idea of a PE Parent Night could be held in conjunction with another school event - this might increase the participation. It is quite frustrating when you plan an event and only a few turn out - but you're right, at least those five students got the benefit.
My mission is based on a quote by W. B. Yeats: Education is not the filling of a bucket, but the lighting of a fire. Especially in Kindergarten, I have a very important job of introducing children to their first experiences with school. Some may have been in Pre-K before, but for many it is the first time they have been in any type of school setting. I want them to learn to love school! If they don't, it will only be harder as the years go on to make them WANT to learn. If I want my students to grow up to be lifelong learners, I HAVE to light that fire. I have to get them excited for learning and spark those questions in their little heads that make them want to find out WHY. I made this my personal mission because as the curriculum/standards become more intense and the expectations of teachers piles on our shoulders, we can't simply fill the kids' heads with skills like a bucket. We have get them to be intrinsically motivated.
The way I do this is by showing my excitement for learning. I let the kids know how fun it is to read, or how exciting math can be. I collaborate with all of my K-team to find out new ways of teaching and to get ideas that will make what we are teaching fun for the kids. I also talk to my kids about the big picture: They love knowing that what they are learning now is going to help them get to "the big schools" to become middle and high schoolers. They see that there is a reason to learn today because it will get them to where they want to be in the future.
To Holly Greenoe CFE: I definitely agree! We have to be the ones to model lifelong learning and excitement for school. And I also agree that you have to talk to everyone involved in each child's life. Like many of the posts have said "it takes a village." If every adult in a child's life modeled their motivation to read and to learn, then how could a child not pick up on that?
My personal mission statement goes so much deeper than just meeting the academic needs of my students or teaching them the SCOS for math, science and writing. I want to set an example for each of my students that they can be and do and achieve if they will work hard and set personal goals for themselves. I want to encourage and motivate students, even if that makes them uncomfortable, tired, or mad. In the process of doing this I truly want to show them compassion show them that I honestly DO care about them as more than just a number or a test score. 10 years from now a student might forget that I taught them how to multiply, but they may never forget that I believed in them and wanted them to succeed as a person.
To make sure my students reach acadmeic success I am willing to do a variety of things. I try to meet the needs of my students where they are at, so I try to present the material at their individual level. I provide them with opportunities for success. I am not afraid to stay late to prepare for the next day or the next week. I constantly give 100% to try and give my students my best effort so they will give me their best effort. In addition I search the internet and talk with other colleagues and professionals to come up with new strategies and techniques to be a better teacher.
To Janet at RPP, I totally agree with you about making your kids feel welcome and wanting to come to school. I am a firm believer in the saying that people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. Making them feel welcome lets them know that you care about them as a person and you care about their feelings.
To Janet at RPP, I totally agree with you about making your students feel welcome. I am a firm believer in the saying "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." Making them feel welcome shows them that you care about them as people and you care about their feelings.
As a third grade teacher, it is my mission to teach each student based on their individual needs. I believe each child, no matter what thier personal circumstances can and wants to learn, so it is my responsibility to provide them with an experience that will facilitate that. It is also my mission to increase students' interest and love for reading. All teachers have the unique task of helping children to become learners for life as well as good decision makers and positive members of society.
In order to accomplish this I am willing to do just about whatever it takes. I collaborate with colleagues, spend hours outside of school to find additional resources and develop my classroom teaching style to fit the different needs of different classes from year to year, as well as the needs and interests of the different students within one class. Academic success should be a goal shared by school staff, parents and students alike, so I am willing to communicate with parents and students about their expectations for a successful and positive school year!
Response to T. Moore:
I really liked what you said about loving the children being one of your personal missions. I totally agree that we are often the only stable, caring adults children It's so important to be a positive influence on all children - especially those that get very little love and attention outside of the school building. I also agree with what you said about self confidence going a long way in a child's educational experience. If you show a child that you believe in them they will work harder to believe in themselves!
As a classroom teacher, my mission is to provide every opportunity for students to develop academically and socially. I also strive to provide a stable, comfortable environment where students are not afraid to take risk that could lead to a learning experience.
In order for my students to reach academic success I am willing to use all available resources and collaborate with my colleagues. I work with them one on one and in small groups in order to make sure they read their learning goals and have opportunities to practice skills that they are developing. I also take time to get to know my students in order to build trusting and stable relationship where they can grow.
CFE Williams:
I agree with you that all students can and want to learn. Sometimes it takes digging deep into our bag of tricks to find what excites the students and motivates them to learn. All the extra hours of work are worth it when the light bulb comes on and you see the connection the student makes to learning.
As a teacher of second graders, my mission is to create a positive learning environment where students and their families can thrive and work together to become continual life-long learners. I prioritize reading in my instruction. I concur with Dr. Seuss as he said: "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." Reading is often at the core of most learning. I work to mold children into becoming strong readers who adopt a personal purpose and love for reading. I still work hard to advance all academic areas, but know reading involves all subjects and mastering this skill can make all other learning easier and more enjoyable.
I truly love working with children and I'm willing to take whatever steps necessary to make sure my students reach academic success. This involves continual learning on my part. I have done this through continual staff development, graduate school, and National Board Certification. Just as children's learning is a work in progress, my skills continue to change and adjust to meet the unique needs and talents each new class offers. With each child, I try to work with them and their family in creating a learning environment where they can flourish and feel successful. I keep regular contact with parents with weekly newsletters and notes, conferences, phone calls, and email. I welcome parents into the classroom and offer them ways to volunteer and be involved in their child's education.
Along with this, I closely monitor each child's progress and regularly tailor my techniques and strategies to benefit each child's learning. I differentiate as much as I can through small group teaching, tiered activities, one-on-one instruction, and collaboration with resource teachers (AIG, Exceptional Children, Specialists, etc. . .). I've worked hard to closely monitor struggling students using tiered paperwork. Through this students are observed and helped with input from other peer teachers and administrators. Even though it's not always comfortable, I'm not afraid to try new techniques. I try to stay flexible as I know each child and class is unique and requires a teacher willing to adopt novel ideas and strategies to ensure students' success.
My mission as an ESL teacher is to equip English Language Learners with the language skills necessary to function comparably to their Native-English peers in academic and social situations. I will work with teachers, parents, school liaisons, and the community to help these students succeed. It is my ultimate goal for the ELLs to achieve independent academic success.
Some of the many steps I take to ensure my students reach academic success are:
-collaborating with teachers, specialists, principals, parents, and the community
-providing continual support as students progress
-making personal connections
-building confidence and encouraging students to take risks
-being an advocate for ELLs
-being a life-long learner
-instilling motivation and interest in learning
T. Podolinsky CFE
CFE Epps
My Mission is to teach my children to the best of my ability with the help of the NCSCOS. My goal is to create a fun and enjoyable environment in which to teach and to create lifetime learners.
Steps I am willing to take to accomplish academic success: by learning new ways to differentiate to meet all my learners, by taking classes offered at UNCW, by being willing to accept any trainings offered by the school, by collaborating with my colleagues, and by always being willing to learn something new!
Response to Allison Bender-
Allison, I like this quote from your response, "To help students realize their potential and make the connection that through an education they can make their dreams come true. That every child, no matter what their ethnicity, economic background or past academic achievement level, has the capability to be what ever they choose to become."
Helping students realize their potential is a huge part of my goal as well. So many of the kids we teach don't see college as a possibility and thus their career choices are more limited. I always tell my kids they can dream and be whatever they want to be. I try so hard to get them to believe that. The sky's the limit is what I tell them. Even coming from a more affluent family as I did, I don't remember anyone ever telling me to pursue my dreams. I wish someone had taken the time to do that during my childhood and teenage years. I'm happy where I'm at, but it's always nice to have dreams.
Response to RPP Holmes
I agree, as educators, we have to be willing to take risks. We have to be willing to try new things to make learning fun and exciting for everyone.
Gordon RPP-
I agree with what you said about motivation. Making a personal connection with these students and building their confidence can help them make tremendous gains. I also agree with you about encouraging ELLs to finish school and pursue higher education. I’m always telling my students how valuable they will be in the job market when they are bilingual.
T. Podolinsky CFE
1. My mission as an ELL teacher is to nurture a positive self esteem in each student. The way students feel about themselves can produce either a successful or unsuccessful adult. I want my ELL's to feel comfortable expressing themselves in whatever language they wish in my classroom. Open communication leads to learning on both ends. ELL's need a sense of worth and belonging, and only then are they ready to let down their guard, and are ready to learn.
2. In order to make sure my ELL's reach academic success, I use myself as an example. I was in their shoes as an eight year old immigrant from Italy not knowing a word of English, and was able to achieve my goal. Through parental support and involvement, I believe that every child has the potential to be successful. I keep open communication with parents or guardians, and relay the importance that education is a tangible goal.
To MaryRPP
I agree with you that if there is no trust between a student and a teacher, learning cannot take place.
The steps that I am currently trying to take for ultimate academic achievement include challenging and enriching my small groups and cluster group classes. For those students who are well above grade level, I am challenging them with a curriculum above their current grade level and exposing them to various enrichment activities. I am also striving to deliver differentiated resources to the teachers so they can incorporate more higher level thinking and academic skills into their regular classroom.
Katherine K.
CFE
In response to Coclough at RPP, I agree that we sometimes need to be a student ourselves and be open to the learnings our students can offer. It's amazing that some of our children can learn technology and brainteasers much faster than we can.
Katherine@CFE
My mission is to provide my students with a safe and positive environment in which to learn. Because they already have learning difficulties they need to feel supported and encouraged in their academic pursuits. It is also my mission to provide them with instruction that is modified for their individual needs and help them to be as successful as possible on their level and not feel a sense of failure if they don't measure up to grade level expectations. I want my students to learn to work hard and do their very best and if they do that then they can be proud of their accomplishments.
I am willing to take whatever steps are necessary to make sure my students are successful. I believe in collaboration between teachers. We can learn so much from each other and I feel we do not use each other as resources often enough. I am also willing to spend time searching for new ways to present materials that will engage their interest.
I also want to reach out to the families of my students to get the involved in their child's education. This is so important. So many of our children deal with issues in their homes that we now affect their learning. It is essential that the parents understand the importance of the child's education and the things they can and need to do at home to help their child.
Adams at RPP - I totally agree with what you said about brightening someone's life be it child or adult. Some of our kids live lives that are unimaginable to us and they just need us to love them. This can help in so many ways. The adults need encouragement also because we do have a difficult job. We need to always encourage each other and build each other up.
My mission is to foster an educational foundation that follows my students throughout their lives while accounting for not only their differing learning styles but their different temperments and personalities as well. I want to teach the reading skills they need but also to instill a love of reading for knowledge and pleasure. An educational foundation would include not only reading but a love of learning and an understanding of the importance of education later in their lives, for career purposes as well as for being a contributing member of society.
Response to Flynn: I feel that reading is a part of the basis for learning in all subject areas. I agree that being successful in reading can make learning in other subjects not only "easier" but more enjoyable.
Steps I take to accomplish my mission would include preparing myself to be as knowledgable as possible of my subject areas, beginning my national boards, collaborating w/ other teachers in order to make use of the awesome knowledge and skilled mentors we have in our schools, to learn as much about my students as possible and take into account their situations, personalities, and temperments.
In response to question 1 - My mission each day is to meet each child where he or she is in the learning process and teach from there. Each child can learn - but some children have different rates of learning or styles of learning. Sometimes its a puzzle to be solved and sometimes its straightforward.
Which brings me to question 2 - When working with a class, I start by using the NCSCOS, the accepted curriculum, and other "typical" resources. For many/most students, this works! For others, I access different ideas and approaches - music, rhythm, movement..whatever has been shown to work.
To Angela Tait-
I like what you said about the role of the teacher continuing to expand. I agree that the internet is one of the best teaching tools of all time - especially to gather and share new teaching ideas and research! It's obvious from everyone's postings that we all want the best for the children and sharing new ideas and insights with each other as a school community or a national community only makes us stronger.
My personal mission is to introduce students to technology in a fun, interesting and meaningful way. A major goal in teaching computer/technology skills is to prepare all students in obtaining the 21st Century skills necessary to be successful adults as they go into the workplace. Also students need to be introduced to a variety of ways that they can use technology to enhance their learning. All students learn in different ways and it's important that students have choices in the way they want to learn. Last but not least, there are skills that all students need to show proficiency in as they go through school, as stated in the NCSCOS.
My personal mission is to introduce students to technology in a fun, interesting and meaningful way. A major goal in teaching computer/technology skills is to prepare all students in obtaining the 21st Century skills necessary to be successful adults as they go into the workplace. Also students need to be introduced to a variety of ways that they can use technology to enhance their learning. All students learn in different ways and it's important that students have choices in the way they want to learn. Last but not least, there are skills that all students need to show proficiency in as they go through school, as stated in the NCSCOS.
To ensure their success, I try to introduce them to as many technology resources as I can - software and hardware. I also teach the students how to use the Internet to search for information and the importance of being "safe" on the Internet - such as not giving out too much personal information. I work with them to complete projects or activities that are tied to what they are learning in the classroom at that time - using technology as a tool to integrate the curriculum, based on the NCSCOS.
Terri at RPP - I completely agree with you that it is important to look at what is going on in the child's home life - is he getting enough to eat, a place to sleep undisturbed, and has a generally safe environment? Often a child who is acting out or disruptiveor has trouble learning may have things going on in his/her life that they cannot control, and it affects every aspect of their life. So this should be looked into - the child will have trouble succeeding if he/she does not have this safe, caring environment to live in.
1. My personal mission statement as a teacher is to educate each child in my classroom according to the given standards and to create a comfortable learning environment to nurture the 'love of learning.'
2. To ensure that my students reach academic success I like my students to mistake learning for a fun game. Technology is helpful in aiding to make learning and teaching more fun. Although, thinking of creative way to get a lesson across may take more time and energy it is worth it to the students and you.
In response to Allison Bender:
I agree that collaborating with colleagues is extremely important. Especially when a teacher has depleted his/her techniques to get a topic across, lots of times talking with a colleague will give you a fresh idea or technique.
My mission is simple: to show that all students can learn. They may all not learn at the same rate or even be able to retain the same amount, but they all can learn. Too many times students get labeled and forgotten about for many reasons, and to me this is not right. All students can learn and it is up to us as educators to make sure that each student reaches his/her potential.
In order to accomplish this I must make sure that my staff has everything they need to ensure this happens. In the times of budget cuts it makes its more challenging to accomplish this. I therefore have to make sure I use any resources possible. Communication with the staff and parents is vital as well. There are many things that have to be done to accomplish this and I could list them on pages and pages, but I think the main thing to remember is that as long as you are doing what is best for the students, then you can do no wrong.
To Janet: I agree with your statement about each of your students succeeding everyday. I particular like the part about you teaching and the students being the best learners they can be. If we as educators provide worthy lessons I believe that our students will soak up the knowledge that we giving them. Doing whatever it takes to make sure kids learn...I love it.
1. My mission is to help students achieve the goals they need to reach and to be sure they have a wonderful start in their educational career.
2. Work one on one with the students and more training for my job.
Mr. Chris, I agree with your comments. I find myself skipping excerise classes and going home to throw myself on the couch. I need to get back to working out along with my children and my neices and newphews. Thanks for making me think.
My mission is to grow each child as much as possible each year. I seek to know my kids on more than just an academic level. I try to form bonds with them and their family. I feel that this gives me a better opportunity to help them succeed in school.
Candice Houseman- RPP
Allison,
I like your mission statement! When we seek to help students learn by using all of their talents and skills, we have the chance to reach MORE of our students.
Candice Houseman- RPP
Ms. Inscoe,
I agree with you about seeking out new ways to help our students. I constantly desire to be a better teacher. I still feel as if there is so much more I need to learn. Teaching is so complex. Our kids have so many diverse needs. I truly believe our kids have needs that go beyond academic needs. Sometimes those other needs have to be met before academic success can be achieved.
kh,cfes, to establish and assistant with guidelines of the class and work on each individual goal by getting the student to be as independent and confident as possible while enjoying the process and setting structure.
kh,cfes, by giving all the time and effort it takes to make them feel secure in what they have learn and what they are being taught while following the set structure and guidelines set by the teacher. Repetition, continuously reteaching what they've learned and more step by step.
My mission is to motivate and prepare my students for both their school endeavors, and for life after their schooling is complete. First and foremost, my mission is to educate my students following the NC State standard course of study. Also, my mission is to supplement the standards in a way to make learning meaningful and relevant to my student population. I want to immerse my second language learners in the English language in a way that is manageable and interesting. I hope that by the time my students leave Cape Fear Elementary they will feel confident in their own abilities and be able to take on the challenges of middle school.
To make sure that my students reach their potential and achieve academic success I do the following:
1. I attempt to keep accurate and up to date records on all of my students. By tracking their daily, weekly, and monthly progress I am able to easily find when and where they are needing extra help.
2. I try my best to keep open lines of communication with my fellow teaching staff. By communicating, on a daily basis, with my students classroom teachers, I am able to discuss any questions/concerns I have about my students and make sure that my plans match and supplement what the teachers are implementing in class.
3. I make sure that I have open communication with my students. I make personal connections with my students and continuously remind them that part of my job is to give them extra help when they need it. By offering "open" time in the afternoons for students to come and "conference" with me... I am able to openly communicate with my student population about their problems, concerns, and/or achievements.
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