We sure know how to party! We had a great time this evening eating, talking, laughing and just enjoying Janie's beautiful backyard (no we did not get in the pool). I love the fact that we work hard and play hard. I also love that we are able celebrate life events as well as support staff members who are going through tough times. We laugh at ourselves and do crazy things to make kids smile (hence the silly string yesterday). I know I say this often, but it really is true......Medlock is a one of a kind place. Thank you for making it this way. #itsbetteratmedlock
Staff Spotlight
This week I would like to shine the spotlight on Debbie Doyle. Debbie has dedicated the past 23 years of her life to the Medlock Bridge School community. She has taught countless students as a teacher and supported even more teachers as a CST. Debbie's curriculum knowledge is vast and the amount of work that she does behind the scenes for things like placement, SST and redelivery of district information is unbelievable. Today we took a few hours to celebrate Debbie and her contribution to Medlock. It is my sincere hope that as she begins her new journey, she knows the lasting impact that she has had on our school. Debbie, thank you for all that you have done for students and staff over the years. We wish you all the wonderful things that retirement has to offer!
May 21, 2015Prepare, Conduct, and Reflect on Student Surveys
- What do you (students) think I did well?
- How can I improve in at least two ways?
- What rating would you give my: kindness, helpfulness, communication, and creativeness?
- What did you do well? (Celebrate!)
- What suggestions were common amongst the majority of your students?
- What can you do to improve for your incoming customers?
Reflection is a huge part of growth. Taking the time to reflect allows you as a teacher to plan next best steps, find new ways to facilitate learning, and build stronger relationships with students. One way to reflect upon the success of your school year is by asking your main customers, your students.
To conduct a student survey, follow these three steps:
Step One: Set the Tone
I set the tone by having a discussion with my students about honest feedback.
The expectation of how to give feedback has been set and reviewed throughout the year. I display a visual reminder slide for students to refer to. I say,
“When we are giving feedback we need to make sure that we are honest. It is through feedback that we grow and find ways to improve on something we might not have been good at before.
We need to use ‘I’ statements. It is fine if something did not work for you. Explain your side of why I need to reflect on how I shared learning with you.
If you are giving feedback, remember to find an example of what you did/didn’t like. If it was something you didn’t like, offer a suggestion to try.”
Step Two: Deliver the Survey
The student survey does not need a ton of questions. As a teacher I want to know the following things:
Give the student survey to your class. You can distribute a paper copy or create a digital copy for students to complete. Remind them to be honest as they answer the questions. Students sometimes want to be nice because they love you. You have to remind them of this opportunity to help you grow as a learner as well.
Step Three: Analyze Your Data
As you wrap up the school year, make a note of what your students noticed. They are your customers. When analyzing your data, ask yourself the following:
Take your notes and plan for the future. Think about one or two ways you can change your instruction, attitude, ability to communicate, or creativity in the classroom so that it meets the needs of your students.
Use your summer to reflect on what you've learned based on your students' voices and then plan for the upcoming school year.
I take notes on a goal-planning template. I keep it in a place where I can visually see it over the summer and at the start of the new school year. Store your notes in your school planner for next year (Yes, this is a great time to get one!) or anywhere you plan to keep notes about what to remember for the new school year. Referring back to this information is a good reminder of your goals for the new year.
The smallest change can make the biggest difference in a child’s learning environment. Use this student survey as one form of reflection based on those who spend the most time with you.
No comments:
Post a Comment