Professional Self-Assessment Form

Teacher Candidates Name: Jordan Jefferson Mentor Teachers Name: Michael McClain Date: April 17, 2013 School: O. W. High School

Grade Level (s)/Subject Area(s) 9-12 Band and Music and its Role Instructions to the teacher candidate: Please reflect on your professional performance, and respond to each of the following prompts. 1. In terms of the ADEPT Performance Standards, what are your professional strengths? How have you built on these strengths so far, and how do you plan to do so in the future?

As a teacher, I have had time to reflect on my performance for the entire semester. I think one of my biggest strengths is my ability to reach every student in the class. From my first day of observations, I started to notice the students who were talkative and confident, and those who were not. I really tried to reach out to those kids especially. They have blossomed and come out of their shells. I also think that another one of my strengths is my varied curriculum. I do a wide variety of tests ranging from fill in the blank, true/false, playing test, and informal assessments. All students have the opportunity to learn successfully. 2. In terms of the ADEPT Performance Standards, what are your professional challenges? How do you plan to meet these challenges?

I think that the biggest challenge in my profession is the scheduling. The schools refuse to fix the scheduling problems and this is killing the arts programs. Some of your classes only have 3-4 kids registered in your class. I will have to schedule after school rehearsals and private lessons if I run into this problem at my prospective job. I will have to meet with administration and plead my case as a teacher, and how I need my students not just on the band, but registered in class everyday to guarantee success. 3. Describe your students overall progress and achievement. What insights have you gained into ways to improve student progress and achievement?

My students have improved in many facets. My Music and Its Role class did not know anything about music or had never picked up an instrument in their life. The classes have gained an acceptance, and an appreciation for this art form call music. I have learned through this experience that the old adage students dont care how much you know until they know how much you care is true. When I first started taking over the class, my Music and Its Role class did not really like or appreciate my style but as time progressed, they begin to learn my style and adapt to it and learn from it. 4. How will you use the knowledge you have gained through this professional selfassessment to promote your continuous professional growth and collaboration?

This has been a true learning experience for me. I have learned so much. In some situations you learn what to do and what to not do. This experience has taught me to always make the best out of every situation. Even though I have not had good number sizes in my band classrooms, I have taken that time to give private lesson instruction to the students. I will always remember my experience here at O.W.