Describe

The artifacts are my observations from 6^th and 7^th grade social studies lessons and a videotape of an 8^th grade science lesson. The data was collected during the Spring of 2013. 

Analyze

ELCC Standard 2.1 – Promote a Positive School Culture.  The lessons all promoted a positive school culture by incorporating Common Core Standards into each lesson.  Differentiated instruction was implemented throughout many of the lessons I observed.

ELCC Standard 2.1 – Provide Effective Instructional Program.  During all of the lessons I observed, I noted the teachers were clearly stating directions to the students.  During the 8^th grade class, the lesson was facilitated in a manner in which students understood the directions, went to their workstations, sat down and began their work.  Both Social Studies teachers had the objective of their lessons on the board.  The students knew to enter the room, begin their Do Now and copy their homework into their notebooks.

ELCC Standard 2.3 – Apply Best Practice to Student Learning and Standard 2.4 – Design a Comprehensive and Professional Growth Plan.  During my post observation with the science teacher we talked about managing the time of the lesson better so more students can ask questions at the end of the lesson.  We also reflected upon incorporating a mini lesson on using a microscope.  When I met with the 6^th grade social studies teacher we were able to discuss why she asked certain questions, how she assigned her reading groups and how well she engaged her student in the lessons. 

Appraise

I feel that I have grown from these experiences by making the teachers feel at ease during post observations. My communication skills have grown tremendously since I have been enrolled in this program.  I did not interrupt the teachers when they spoke and I listened to everything they had to say. I felt that I provided good positive feedback to all of the teachers.  The conferences felt more like conversations than that of a post-observation.  I informed all teachers that my door is always open and I will listen to any problems or concerns they might be having during the school year.

Transform

As a future leader, I will try to always put my teachers at ease during all phases of an observation.   I will listen to them and make sure to always find something positive to say.  I will also have a two-way conversation with them.  I will not just ask questions, wait for answers and move on. I hope through my feedback conversations I can challenge my teachers rather than have them feel threatened by me as an administrator.  I will help to encourage my teachers in pedagogical advancement and the steady improvement of practice.