LESSON STUDY CYCLE 2
TAP YEAR 1 REFLECTION
A BIT ABOUT EQUITY
What Are My Teaching Superpowers?
My teaching superpower is the ability to see students’ strengths and provide them with opportunities to shine. Strengths-based education is based on the belief that every child has the potential to learn, and that the best way to progress in learning is through a positive lens. I look at my students, ask questions, talk to parents, and form relationships where I get to know my students’ funds of knowledge, draw on these skills in the classroom to enrich their understanding of academic content while also motivating my students during classroom activities.
Another superpower I have is the ability to use reinforcing, reminding, and redirecting language. I was fortunate enough to work in a classroom where the teacher modeled this for me every day. I listened to her carefully and learned that the words I use with my students are my most powerful teaching tools. I was introduced to the book "The Power of our Words" by Paula Denton by this teacher and have often referred to it ever since.
Areas For Growth
Areas for growth are gaining experience in project planning. I have many project ideas but I don’t have enough experience collaborating with others to plan a thorough project from start to finish and everything it takes to lead a project. That experience will come with time.
Another area for growth, especially with the current need for distance learning is the use of technology. Over the past three months, I have learned many platforms along the way but I want to explore more ways to provide a meaningful education through distance learning. How can I connect with my students in way that feels authentic and not disconnected? Even during this time of uncertainty, it is important to instill in my students that meaningful learning and exploration are important and can continue outside the walls of our classroom.
What does it mean to be an antiracist / equity-focused educator?
To call myself an antiracist / equity-focused educator means that I am always reflecting on my teaching practice and being conscious of the words I use and the decisions I make for my students in order to disrupt the eurocentric narrative that has forever plagued our educational system. It means that I am aware of the work that needs to be done outside the confines of my classroom to understand who my students are and where they come from. It means that I choose to acknowledge our cultural and racial differences and encourage conversations about race with my curious young students. It means that I am taking action and advocating for my students that don’t have equal access to resources needed to succeed. It also means that I am vocal about diversity in our staff as I am a firm believer that students need to see themselves in their teachers.
“How might I...”
ensure that my students are reading at or above grade level and what do I need to do as an educator to help my struggling readers.