End-of-Year Reflection and Congratulations
As we near the end of the year, I want to start with a heartfelt CONGRATULATIONS to teachers, students, and families. This year has presented challenges in new ways. Even though COVID-19 is behind us, we've still overcome many different types of obstacles.
Let's take a moment to recognize the challenges we've faced and the large and small victories we've accomplished this year.
Take a second to write down a few reflections:
What was your biggest takeaway this year?
What was a challenge you faced, and how did you try to overcome it?
What was one thing a student or teacher did that made you laugh?
What was your biggest success this year?
What was the most significant learning experience this year?
I record myself in a mini diary every year to document my successes and failures.
Here are a few of my reflections:
The gaps caused by COVID-19. Many students didn't feel confident coming into math class this year.
Creating a safe environment: By establishing clear expectations (Be Respectful, Be Responsible, and Be Safe) and reinforcing them every day, my students internalized these values and benefited greatly.
Building grit: I noticed how resilient students became when I expressed my belief and trust in them. They went from being hesitant to relying on one another.
Benefits of random seating: Implementing random seating every day (instead of once a week) allowed students to work with different groups and thrive.
Focusing on understanding: I prioritized comprehension over speed. Although we didn't cover all the 8th-grade standards, students were well-prepared for 9th grade-and beyond.
Now that you have some ideas of what you've accomplished this year, it's time to question your teaching practices and look for ways to improve.
Document a few thoughts in your notes:
Are there any beliefs you had at the beginning of the year that you no longer hold? Why or why not?
Are there strategies you didn't focus on enough this year? What were they, and why was it hard to implement them?
What is something you've seen other teachers do that you want to try next year?
What life skills can you work on with your group to set them up for the next grade?
The end of the year is the best time to reflect on your skills and strategies. This activity may take a few minutes or a few hours. Reflecting on the year helps you see your successes and monitor your progress. We can always grow from prior years. Who you are today doesn't have to define who you become. Be the role model others look up to.
Love,Ms. Carmack