Reflecting on Engaging in Career-Long Learning
2 A teacher engages in career-long professional learning and ongoing critical reflection to
improve teaching and learning.
Student Teacher Practices
- Through EUS I was able to attend a wide
variety of seminars that each dealt with
different topics relating to education. I found
these seminars invaluable because they allow
me to gain a better understanding of areas in
education that may not always be able to be
covered in the education program. While I
can’t implement everything I learn, continuing
my education allows me to learn new methods
and apply what I have learned to my
classrooms. My willingness to continue to
educate myself allows me to grow as a
teacher, and can only help to improve my
skills and capabilities as I seek to be the best
teacher I can be.
- Horizon also implemented a PD day, that
similarly to EUS had speakers and seminars
for me to learn. One of these sessions talked
about getting kids into nature, and being more
willing to do education outside. This resonated
with me, and gave me ideas for projects and
ideas I could implement in the future. PD
sessions should both inform and inspire
teachers, and when educators feel inspired
and excited about teaching this can only
benefit students.
- Keeping a reflection log is a great way to
maintain ongoing critical reflection throughout
any teaching role. This log can not only help
organize one's thoughts and provoke
meaningful reflection on best teaching
practices, but it can be referred to in the
future, for old insights made new.
- Staff meetings for ISP planning,
implementation, and home-life awareness
- Inquiry question about homework
Influence of Student Learning Experience
-Being willing to learn various perspectives
and approaches to teaching philosophies,
curriculum, and mental health better help my
students by ensuring that I am willing to
continue growing and serving them. Students
deserve teachers who want to learn
alongside them, and who constantly seek out
the best methods for helping student growth
and learning. 
-I think one of the most important
characteristics a teacher should have and
continue to develop is empathy. During my
PSII I was able to learn about the individual
learning needs of my students.
Understanding students’ personal struggles,
and utilizing empathy to develop strategies to
help them is an essential tool for any
teacher. I have to put in the extra effort to not
only understand the various physical,
emotional, and educational challenges they
face, but also to react with empathy and
develop a plan (alongside their ISP) to help
them succeed. Having someone who wants
them to have success, and puts forth the
effort can allow students to work through
challenges and fosters a positive learning
experience.