EEA 641 Perry 1 Internship I Reflections 1. June 2012 and 2013 Grade 8 to 9 Boys Transition Contact Information: Vijay Manuel – W.J. Mouat Secondary (604) 853-7191 and Vijay_Manuel_sd34.bc.ca Standard 2: Leadership for Learning Principals and vice-principals foster quality teaching and learning opportunities to support student learning and achievement. Reflection: Through my yearly involvement with the grade eight to nine boys transition group at W.J. Mouat I have come to understand the importance of providing transition activities to the future grade 9 students. Each year we plan and organize our annual transition day where teachers from neighbouring feeder schools bring future grade nine students to our building to introduce them to staff and allow them to become more familiar with W.J. Mouat Secondary. From my experiences I have learned that the transition leaders do an effective job of reducing fears and limiting the unknowns while also introducing students to our school’s values, visions and expectations. Before the transition group existed it was evident that there was a significant disconnect between Mouat and our middle school students. With the creation of the program I have witnessed middle school students make meaningful connections with Mouat teachers, counselors, librarians, peer mentors and our administrative staff. Having been a member of this program over the last five years I have witnessed the significant impact it has had on the academic success and achievement of students when they eventually attend Mouat. Upon further reflection the transition day also greatly benefits our student services department and administrative staff as grade 9 students are familiar with the rules, expectations and support systems in place within our school prior to attending. Before the creation of this day future students were sometimes at a loss when it came to disciplinary actions taken in a secondary setting or unfamiliar with what academic support systems that were available to them. I can see that the transition day eliminates this lack of familiarity. I have come to understand that providing students with clear structure is incredibly important and as I know from experience it is critical to know who your leaders and supporters are in order to be successful in a new environment. In addition to school expectations I have also noticed that the transition experience provides prospective students with the opportunity to learn the school layout, possible extra-curricular activities that they can get involved in and to learn about our school culture. In our most recent transition session we asked senior Mouat students to present their experiences to our grade eight group. I could see that these peer-to-peer presentations are far more effective and meaningful that those previously presented by Mouat staff. There is a greater level of connection that exists when students present information to other students. The challenges associated with the transition from middle to secondary school are difficult as research suggest, “factors such as a larger environment, increased academic demands, and reduced personal support (Smith, 2007), students also face social challenges—both real and perceived—as they move to high school, including harassment or teasing by older students, reestablishing popularity, and difficulty in making new friends (Mizelle, 2005; Langenkamp, 2009). Having senior level EEA 641 Perry 2 students present allows for a bond to be created between those watching the presentation and those presenting. I have witnessed the effectiveness of these connections when younger students approach senior students in the following school year for academic and social support. I feel the transition program breaks down barriers for our prospective students and allows them to feel more comfortable when they arrive in the fall. 2. November 19, 2013 School-Based Team Meeting Contact Information: Sarbjit Brar – W.J. Mouat Secondary (604) 853-7191 Time: 2:45 pm – 4:00 pm Standard 3: Supervision for Learning Principals and vice-principals create a system and structure for effective supervision focused on instructional and assessment practices that maximize student learning and achievement. Standard 7: Systems Thinking and Planning Principals and vice-principals incorporate systems thinking to strategically plan and manage for student learning and achievement. Reflection: My attendance at our school-based team meeting today provided me with a firm appreciation and understanding of the protocol for discussions and decision-making concerning the welfare of our at-risk students. Before attending today’s meeting I had a limited understanding of what went on within these discussions and I was not quite familiar with the responsibilities of the group. While I watched the meeting unfold it became absolutely clear that collaboration and collegiality are key components of the school-based team. I observed how each member of the students services department plays an important role within the group and it is this diversity, which contributes to the effectiveness of their decisions. The range of departments represented within the team further contributes to the competence of the group. Upon further investigation I quickly realized that teams are everywhere within our school system, from administration to departmental areas. I have come to realize that within our Mouat SBT there are many divisions of the school represented. This wideranging commitment by members of our school’s administrative team, our counseling department and our student services department prove the importance and effectiveness of this group. I noted the importance of building a group where members are active in the decision-making process and all opinions are considered before any decision is made final. For me, the collaborative nature of this group is essential and provides an important opportunity for those involved to express their opinions openly and present a more diverse perspective to ensure sound decisions are being made. I feel the cohesiveness of this group is also an important proponent of its success. The collegial and cooperative nature of group dialogue allows decisions to be made efficiently and effectively. It is this “team” mentality that can be attributed to the well-rounded and wellsupported nature of their decisions. According to Edmondson et al. (2003) in their journal on top management teams, “(1) [team] decisions enhance organizational performance (e.g. Hambrick, 1994), (2) a members’ commitment to implementing team decisions and willingness to work together in the future (Amason, 1996; Nadler, 1996; Schweiger, EEA 641 Perry 3 Sandberg, & Ragan, 1986), and (3) the extent to which the team process meets members’ growth and satisfaction needs (Hackman, 1987; Hambrick, 1994). A significant take away for me today was the importance of protecting the privacy of our students and maintaining an important line of confidentiality. For obvious reasons this is an important priority within the SBT. Administrators, counselors and teachers need to ensure students are the top priority of every decision made within the SBT. Another important element that resonated with me today was the SBT commitment to systems thinking and school protocol. Furthermore, I noticed that the cohesiveness of discussions and decisions within the SBT are based firmly on the principle of a shared vision of the school and its student populace. For me this demonstrates a complete buy-in by those involved and speaks volumes of the group as a whole. In Peter Senge’s book, “the Fifth Discipline” he highlights the “learning organization” and discusses the importance of “building a shared vision – a practice of unearthing shared pictures of the future that foster genuine commitment and enrollment rather than compliance” (Senge, 1990). Within the SBT all members are cognizant of the policies and procedures required when decisions are made. I realize now that having a highly functional group with a unified understanding of protocol and procedures significantly increases the efficiency of the group. Students are discussed, options are presented and decisions are made. After attending my first meeting I have noted the need to familiarize myself with the variety of terminology and protocol surrounding individual education plans (IEPs) and individual learning plans (ILOs). Although I am fairly fluent in the protocols of being a classroom teacher there is still much to learn from the position of a student service department member or that of an administrator. 3. A. September 2013 to November 2013 Trevor O’Neil Student Observer University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) Student Practicum Standard 7: Systems Thinking and Planning Principals and vice-principals incorporate systems thinking to strategically plan and manage for student learning and achievement. Having Trevor observe my physical education class for eighty (80) hours not only gave him experience and practice in a physical education setting but it also allowed me to reassess and reevaluate several of my teaching strategies. At first I was reluctant to take on yet another UFV kinesiology student but I was quickly convinced by Trevor’s eagerness and love for teaching. When applicable I think student volunteers/observers are an important addition to any classroom. This specific experience gives qualified teachers an opportunity to give back by providing guidance and support to those in the early stages of teacher development. I think that much can be learned from student observers as they too can introduce new strategies and techniques to even seasoned teachers. Having Trevor observe my class gave both of us the opportunity to communicate and discuss pertinent topics in education specifically as they relate to physical education. Trevor’s presence in my class refreshed my enthusiasm. I have always been a firm believer in challenging myself to improve and I am constantly seeking new and innovative instructional strategies. I think that a tremendous amount can be learned from researching and reading pertinent articles while also participating in professional development sessions related to my subject areas. EEA 641 Perry 4 In my discussions with Trevor I brought up Chick Moorman. Over a year ago Moorman came to our school and presented information and strategies related to motivating the unmotivated learner. I found Moorman’s strategies applicable to all of my classes but specifically to my physical education courses. According to Moorman motivation is generated when “we disrupt the cycle of failure in underachieving students…so they can improve their performance and maximize their potential” (Moorman, 2014). I think this is particularly relevant for physical education teachers because motivation is one of our greatest daily challenges. A lack of student motivation was one of the roadblocks in Trevor’s initial approach to teaching. After hearing from Moorman and witnessing Trevor’s experiences, I am now convinced that when students develop confidence and build self-esteem around physical activity or in a given subject area they will be more inclined to disrupt the “cycle of failure.” I think that when teachers target the individual interests and abilities of their students they are more likely to be intrinsically motivated. According to further research, physical education students who become engaged and self-motivated are more likely to maintain a dynamic and healthy lifestyle in the future (Alameddine, 2013). 3. B. September 2013 to November 2013 Trevor O’Neil Student Observer University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) Student Practicum Standard 2: Leadership for Learning Principals and vice-principals foster quality teaching and learning opportunities to support student learning and achievement. Working with Trevor caused me to reflect on my start as a teacher. Since I first started teaching I have noticed a significant improvement in my abilities and my students’ achievement. However, within the past year I have begun to develop an all-too-common routine within my teaching. For instance, relying too heavily on PowerPoint and the stand and deliver method. After identifying my routine I made the appropriate changes and student engagement and learning have improved. For every teacher to develop and progress I know self-assessment is critical. When a teacher recognizes a continuous pattern it is important that they make a concerted effort to redesign lessons, activities and exercises. Since making these changes within my own classes I have noticed a considerable improvement in the energy and enthusiasm of my students and in my own teaching. Daniel Goleman effectively captures the importance of being self-aware and the importance of self-assessment. “If your emotional abilities aren’t in hand, if you don’t have self-awareness, if you are not able to manage distressing emotions, if you can’t have empathy and have effective relationships, then no matter how smart you are, you are not going to get very far” (Goleman, 1995). I think that Goleman skillfully identifies a common problem among many teachers. I can see that it is not so much about imparting our knowledge as it is about providing a safe and open environment for learning. As teachers we must carefully play both an intellectual and empathic role as we support student learning and achievement. This is often a difficult balance to obtain but one that is critical for academic and social improvement within our students. When teachers and students learn to effectively self-assess achievement levels and attainment will also improve (Black & William, 1998). EEA 641 Perry 5 Throughout the years the principal and vice-principals have offered both opportunities for professional growth (guest speakers, workshops, etc.) and support in trying new approaches. 5. December 3, 2013 School-Based Team Meeting Contact Information: Sarbjit Brar – W.J. Mouat Secondary (604) 853-7191 Time: 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm Standard 3: Supervision for Learning Principals and vice-principals create a system and structure for effective supervision focused on instructional and assessment practices that maximize student learning and achievement. Reflection: After attending today’s SBT meeting I learned how collaboration, teamwork and mutual respect form a pivotal part of the SBT group dynamic. Often, members within the SBT are asked to make difficult decisions in response to student behaviour and/or academic progress. After attending my first SBT meeting I immediately recognized the important role this team plays in supporting student learning and achievement. However, what I did not initially observe was how important it is for this group to cooperate and coalesce when making important “team” decisions. I think that the friendly exchanges and collegial discussions that occur between student service department members, counselors and administrators play a vital role in allowing them to make constructive well-rounded decisions. To effectively support our struggling students I know now that this group regularly must come up with creative ways to support students in need. If not offering a study block or suggesting an adaptation to their current program members within the student service department are required to devise effective strategies that cater to the individual learning needs of our students. Decision making not only requires cooperation and support within the department but across the school. As a classroom teacher I am not always privy to information regarding specific students. As a result I realize now that it is important that I accept the decisions made within SBT as valid and suitable. Having had the opportunity to observe and report on the happenings within a SBT I have now gained a firmer appreciation of the inner workings of the group and the important decisions they make. For example, in one particular case, a collaborative decision was made to temporarily remove a student from a non-academic elective class in order for them to complete overdue work in a core course. When decisions like this are made I think that it is important for classroom teachers to recognize, trust and cooperate with the choices that are made within the SBT and accept that they have been thoroughly evaluated. I realize now that many of the academic adjustments and decisions cannot be made without the permission of classroom teachers. This further reinforces the importance that both departments are supportive and cooperative of each other. Fortunately, at Mouat the relationship between teachers and the students services department is one of mutual respect and open lines of communication make for efficiency in the SBT and most importantly benefit the the students that they support. I am grateful that our staff is as trusting and supportive of the decisions made within our SBT. The student-centered approach is effectively embodied within the SBT EEA 641 Perry 6 and this directly impacts the overall success of our school. Although SBT meetings only occur once a week I realize now how important they are in accomplishing a multitude of goals and objectives. “Collaborative time for teachers to undertake and then sustain school improvement may be more important than equipment or facilities or even staff development” (Fullan and Miles 1992, Louis 1992, Rosenholtz 1989). 7. December 17, 2013 School-Based Team Meeting Contact Information: Surbjit Brar – W.J. Mouat Secondary (604) 853-7191 and Surbjit_Brar@sd34.bc.ca Time: 2:45 pm to 3:30 pm Standard 7: Systems Thinking and Planning Principals and vice-principals incorporate systems thinking to strategically plan and manage for student learning and achievement. Reflection: At today’s school-based team meeting I developed a better understanding of the systems and protocol in place to support our schools’ at-risk students. I was able to observe the strategies and tactics applied to support our chronically absent or late students. I asked myself: how can we provide support for students who do not attend regularly? What strategies can be implemented to provide support for students who do not make themselves available for it? Within the school-based team group strategies were discussed with individual department members providing their input. Each of the departments involved provide valuable suggestions on what works best for the individual student, what strategies were not successful in the past and what long-term strategic goals should be implemented to support student learning needs. It is in these meetings that staff reveal their genuine care for students’ well-being and achievement. I realize now how important it is to have caring and compassionate staff members within both counseling and student service positions. Not only do these individuals exhibit tremendous patience and understanding for a variety of different learning needs but they also take time to make meaningful connections with many of our most disadvantaged students. I realize now what sort of time commitment is needed to make these connections and how emotionally exhausting this can be for those involved. I also observed how teacher input is taken into account and applied to the relevant components of the students learning plan. All variables within the student’s academic standing are considered before final decisions are made. Grades (Check My Mark), attendance, behavioural concerns, areas of success and areas of failure are all part of the evaluation process. This wide-ranging perspective gives those involved the opportunity to make an educated and well-rounded decision on the fate of the student. In today’s case, the student showed no progress when given a support block. As a result the next step in protocol was taken to support this students educational needs. As a classroom teacher who is often not apart of administrative decisions it was reassuring to know that careful consideration is considered before any major academic changes are made. Furthermore, every decision made within this group is always in the best interest of the student involved. Academic contracts were also discussed in today’s meeting in addition to that of an attendance contract. From my experiences these contract are often very effective when EEA 641 Perry 7 teachers and administration are looking to motivate students to improve truancy. When students are presented with the prospect of an alternative educational route it often causes them to reevaluate and adjust their standing within our school. Within the article entitled, “The Four Keys to Helping At-Risk Kids,” several strategies are highlighted for dealing with at-risk students. Elias stresses the importance of establishing and sustaining a caring relationship with the individual student, the importance of setting reachable goals, identifying realistic pathways to success and engaging the student in the school and community setting (Elias, 2009). Listening to the needs of students is an essential component of building meaningful relationships. When students feel empowered and entrusted by their teachers they are more like to achieve. A priority within all of my classes is to connect on a personal level with my students. By engaging in meaningful dialogue and by asking questions I hope to build connections with these students. Building on what I already know today’s SBT meeting provided me with new strategies and insight into relevant and worthwhile connections. I also developed a better understanding of being a systems thinker and a better appreciation for the protocols in place to support our at-risk students. 9) January 14th, 2014 School-Based Team Meeting Contact Information: Surbjit Brar – W.J. Mouat Secondary (604) 853-7191 and Surbjit_Brar@sd34.bc.ca Standard 2: Leadership for Learning Principals and vice-principals foster quality teaching and learning opportunities to support student learning and achievement. Reflection: Given the socio-economic status and changing demographic conditions of our student populace I have come to realize the critical role that school plays in the lives of our students. Our school is widely recognized as one of the best in the district and in our province but this is not necessarily a reflection of the affluence of our students. Considering the complexity of our student populace and the demands of their corresponding learning needs we as a staff take pride in providing a well-rounded and supportive learning environment for all to live and learn. I think this is largely a result of the leadership and direction we have within our building. From support staff to classroom teachers each individual plays an important role in supporting the academic and social needs of our students. In Anne Lieberman and Lynne Miller’s article entitled, “Teachers as Leaders,” the ever-changing issues surrounding student learning and the implications brought on by demographic and socio-economic changes are discussed. In the United States, as in Canada, family structures are in flux (Liebermann, & Miller, 2005). “Alternative family structures are now challenging long-held beliefs about the nuclear family as the model of how children should be raised in industrialized countries (Liebermann, & Miller, 2005). In addition to the family dynamic, economic and demographic changes have widely impacted the perspectives and outlook of many of our students. In order to cater to their individual learning needs we must be cognizant of these diversities. “Teaching is regarded as highly intellectual work, grounded in professional communities where teachers assume responsibility for the learning of their students and of one another” EEA 641 Perry 8 (Liebermann, & Miller, 2005). This is never more true than when we address the learning needs of our at-risk students. We as teachers need to be flexible, understanding but firm in our expectations within the learning environment. What makes the school-based team so effective and efficient is that all members are involved in discussions surrounding individual students. When complications arise collective feedback-based on sound educational practices-is provided and suggestions are given on how to best deal with specific student needs. I think that this well-rounded approach provides a great deal of insight and overview when identifying the immediate needs of our students. After attending several SBT meetings I have come to realize the wide-range of student needs within our building and have since began to identify who can help many of these students achieve success. In particular, our school’s aboriginal program coordinator is an extremely valuable resource to many of our First Nations students. I think many of our aboriginal students have unfortunately lost touch with their ancestral heritage. In recognition of this disconnect our aboriginal program attempt to instill a greater sense of cultural identity and confidence in our First Nations students. In addition to providing cultural support, our aboriginal coordinator also provides guidance, mentorship and career training to interested students. Having had the opportunity to participate in a recent First Nations field trip and engage in several meaningful conversations I now further understand the cultural and social significance of the aboriginal program and its impact on student development. Finally, near the end of today’s meeting, report card reminders were also discussed in preparation for upcoming final exams and final grades. Specific comments and comment numbers are required for designated students. Although this is a ministry requirement I think it also serves as important reflective piece for many classroom teachers. Not only does it encourage classroom teachers to identify adaptations made throughout the semester but it also hold them accountable for these alternative teaching practices in order to ensure students learning needs are being met. The Ministry of Education demands that students who have been identified are being closely monitored through their designated Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) and Individual Education Plans (IEPs). I know that these plans play an important role in supporting the individual learning needs of particular students. IEPs also provide insight on how to best support identified or designated students. These and other strategies build on the efforts of teachers and their attempts to provide the best possible educational opportunities for all of our students. 11) January 21st, 2014 A Reflection on Administrative Changes Contact Information: Ruth Merrick – W.J. Mouat Secondary (604) 853-7191 and Ruth_Merrick@sd34.bc.ca Standard 2: Leadership for Learning Principals and vice-principals foster quality teaching and learning opportunities to support student learning and achievement. Standard 3: Supervision for Learning Principals and vice-principals create a system and structure for effective supervision focused on instructional and assessment practices that maximize student learning and achievement. EEA 641 Perry 9 Reflection: Within the last week we received news that our school Principal Rob Comeau would be transferring to Abbotsford Senior Secondary as of April 1st and at that time Jay Pankratz would move to Mouat as our new Principal. This announcement obviously came with a mix of emotions. Rob has been a rock at W.J. Mouat for over two decades both as a teacher and as an administrator. This news although not entirely unexpected had many staff members questioning the future leadership and organization of our school. Although Mr. Pankratz has had a great track record at his previous school, change of any kind especially at this level is always a little unsettling. However, I think that Pankratz will bring his experience and knowledge enabling our staff to foster quality teaching and learning opportunities, which have worked for him and his staff at Yale Secondary. Including myself, both junior and senior level teachers have grown accustomed to the way things have been at Mouat. A level of familiarity and comfort at an administrative level has promoted consistency and cohesion among staff. Rob is a truly great leader who has instilled trust and support in the staff that he administrates. That said an administrator new to our school may see potential that has not yet been tapped. Now that Rob is leaving I have had the opportunity to reflect on his leadership. One thing I appreciated most about it is that it was firmly rooted in his previous experiences as a teacher. As a leader he recognizes the need to consult others and understands when decisions need to be made. His stability and consistency within our school have provided strength and compassion amongst our faculty. Rob understands people and recognizes that everyone on staff plays a pivotal role within our school. He is appreciative, committed and understanding in his role as our school principal. Jim Collins accurately summarizes Rob’s role as an administrator and leader within our school and district. “Greatness is not a function of circumstance. Greatness is largely a matter of conscious choice and discipline” (Collin, 2014). I can see that Rob’s firm belief in team-based decisions further emphasizes the importance of collaboration and cooperation among staff. When staff is trusted they are empowered and they develop a greater sense of ownership. When the right people are in the right positions the system will operate successfully. As a leader Rob has effectively found the balance between firm and fair. Staff members understand the boundaries and respect the relationship between teacher and administrator. Rob holds a high standard for those on staff and his expectations are based on creating success for all. Tom Peters best describes Rob’s approach to leadership when he describes that, “leaders don’t create followers they create more leaders” (Peters, 2014). As evidence of this several of our staff under Rob’s guidance have had the opportunity to step into leadership roles within our school and across the district. At Mouat staff are given the opportunity and support necessary to advance themselves professionally. This transpires to great things and effectively comes back to the students. Admittedly, I am nervous for the future but I am confident in the abilities of our staff and our administrative team. Unfortunately, change is an inevitable part of the teaching profession. How we adapt to the change, grow and learn forms the foundation for academic and professional development. EEA 641 Perry 10 References Alameddine, J. (2013). 5 ways to keep girls in sports. Active for Life: Raising healthy, happy kids. Retrieved January 28, 2014, from http://activeforlife.com/5-ways-girls-in-sports/ Amason, A.C. (1996). Distinguishing the effects of functional and dysfunctional conflict on strategic decision making. Academy of Management Journal, 39(1), 123-148. Black, P., & Wiliam, D. (1998). Inside the black box: Raising standards through classroom assessment. Phi Delta Kappan, 80(2), 139–148. Collins, J. (2014). Jim Collins Website. Retrieved February 12, 2014, from http://www.jimcollins.com/ Elias, M. (2009). The four keys to helping at-risk kids. Edutopia: What Works in Education. Retrieved February 9, 2014, from http://www.edutopia.org/strategies-help-at-risk-students Fullan, M., and M. Miles. (June 1992). “Getting Reform Right: What Works and What Doesn't.” Phi Delta Kappan: 745–752. Goleman, D. (1995) Emotional Intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Retrieved from http://www.affirmativeactionhoax.com/pdfs/Goleman.pdf Hackman, J. R. (1987). The design of work teams. In J. Lorsch (Ed.), Handbook of organizational behavior (pp. 315-342). Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall. Hambrick, D.C. (1994). Top management groups: a conceptual integration and reconsideration of the team label. In B.M. Staw, & L. L. Cummings (Eds.), Research in organizational behavior (pp. 171-214). Greenwich, CT: JAI Press. Langenkamp, A. (2009). Following different pathways: Social Integration, Achievement, and the Transition to High School. American Journal of Education, 116(1), 69–97. Lieberman, A., & Miller, L. (2005). Teachers as Leaders. The Educational Forum, 69(1), 151-162. Retrieved February 9, 2014 from http://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ683740.pdf Louis, K. S. 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The Fifth Discipline. Toronto: Doubleday/Currency. Smith, J. S. (2007). Managing the transition to ninth grade in a comprehensive urban high school. Washington, DC: National High School Center. Retrieved from http://www.betterhighschools.org/docs/NHSC_TransitionsReport.pdf. 11