Competency Goal 5

Goal 5: Teachers are members of learning communities For a school to run smoothly and effectively, it must have teachers that work collaboratively with other professionals. Areas that are to be considered for collaborative work include instructional policy, curriculum development, and staff development. Skilled teachers must understand state and local educational objectives, be aware of school and community resources that are available and able to use these resources for the benefit of their students, and work together with parents. The difficult work of teaching goes far beyond the boundaries of the classroom to branch out to wider communities of learning. There are valuable resources within all communities that teachers can connect

It is important that teachers have the interpersonal skills needed to work together in the interest of the school community as a whole and able to work on teams to effectively collaborate. Proficient teachers must always be aware of the learning goals and objectives established by their state and local guidelines. Regular parent communication is not only important, but necessary to share the education of their child. Listening to parent concerns and respecting their point of view, gaining their support in promoting learning, keeping them informed of accomplishments of their child, and educating them about school programs are all ways that a skilled teacher can foster great school to home

When teachers can work closely with their administration, it helps to create a cohesive environment for all that work there. EDUC 502 Foundations and Psychology of Educational Leadership gave me a new insight into the field of administration and their workings. I learned the perspective of administration and working collaboratively with them to improve students’ learning. During this course I learned how to seek and build partnerships with the community which is a huge portion of goal 5. I was introduced to fundamental principles within administrative theories, including organizational, leadership, content, change, and process theories. I completed a paper, Exhibit L, on Communication which outlines the communication goals and the implementation of the plan needed for success in my classroom setting between school and home. I was to show how I would build a culture of trust and strong interpersonal relationships with all different stakeholders and what specific strategies I would use. Communicating with parents and guardians is an important aspect of goal 5 and this exhibit outlines what I felt to be important in the area of school to home