As a veteran FACS teacher of 10 years, I have seen education evolve tremendously. When I entered education, President George Bush implemented the No Child Left Behind Initiative. With big ideas for all, nominal funding, and no desired results, the initiative had to be revaluated. Through my years of teaching, the expectations of teachers and students have grown. Students are expected to learn, but must pass end of course tests, and teachers are to continue engaging students with delightful lessons that will prepare them for the test. That is always priority number on for me in the classroom.
The new Common Core Standards will require all states to have the same objectives geared towards reading and math. Students that master the common objectives are said to be more prepared to enter higher education institutions and entry-level positions in the work force. Students are also to receive whole child education which would incorporate healthy initiatives to the students amongst other aspects relating to safety, being engaged, supported, being challenged, and sustainable.
I believe that America needs the common core standards. When communicating with other teachers from across the nation, I compare some of the standards that their students must master versus students from my home state. A lot of times the standards are different. In some cases, there is no end of core testing required by the state. If all US students were held to the same standard, they would know what their expectations are and what their competition is learning. Colleges would also know what students are learning and would be able to judge them on a level playing ground. This is a great thing for a student that is if they don’t have any obstacles prohibiting them from being successful.
Teachers would also be responsible for executing engaging lessons that will challenge students and do everything possible to help the student be successful. This would translate to the Annual Professional Performance Review which is the new teacher evaluation initiative that is being implemented very soon. Some schools in NY are already piloting this review process. Teachers will be evaluated yearly through observations, and a portfolio containing documentation of all the work the teacher has done over the year. Components that are required include personal reflections, professional skills, professional growth, professional development, showcase of your best efforts, and goals for future development.
I think that this process is beneficial to teachers, and their students. This review process will hold teachers accountable to the work that they do in the classroom. NC, the state where I moved from has a review process similar to this. Last year, I had to have multiple observations and present my portfolio to my evaluator. This dialogue was beneficial to me as I was able to explain the processes of my teaching, and share all of the wonderful opportunities I provide for my students. I think my evaluator had more respect to my contributions to my student education. One drawback of this process is remembering to collect EVERYTHING, and taking the time to organize the portfolio.
Ultimately, I think that the changes are great. Children need and deserve quality education for responsible teachers that care about their work, and the success of their students. All the effort is worthwhile to the student development, and your professional development.
