Reflecting and Recharging

Starting our second semester is a perfect time to "recharge" and reflect on our career.  In a profession as challenging as teaching, honest self-reflection is key. Self-reflection provides the opportunity to focus on those areas we are succeeding in, and those we need to concentrate on.

Use these questions to get started!

• What do I enjoy most about my normal work day?
• Where did I fail as a teacher in the past? Where did I succeed?
• What is my top teaching goal for this year?
• What can I do to make my teaching more fun while adding to my students' learning and enjoyment?
• What can I do to be more proactive in my professional development?
• What types of students do I tend to ignore or do I need to spend more time serving?
• Which lessons or units am I only continuing to perform out of habit or laziness?
• Am I being a cooperative member of my grade level or content team?
• Are there any aspects of the profession that I am ignoring out of fear of change or lack of knowledge? (i.e. technology)
• How can I increase valuable parental involvement?
• Have I done enough to foster a productive relationship with my administrator?
• Do I have a colleague that I consider a "Critical Friend?"  If not, who could be that person?
• Do I still enjoy teaching? If not, what can I do to increase my enjoyment in my chosen profession?
• Do I bring additional stress upon myself? If so, how can I decrease or eliminate it.
• How have my beliefs about learning and pedagogy changed over the years?
• What minor and/or major changes can I make to my academic program in order to directly increase my students' learning?

One of the best things about teaching is that every school year and even every semester means a "fresh start." Make the most of this new beginning - any time of year! - and move ahead with the confidence that you are mindful and motivated to be the best teacher you can be!