At the start of the year, I felt like a good teacher. And my CSTP scores showed that. By the end of the year, i felt like a great teacher- and the 5s across all scores show that. Does self-scoring 5’s for every category mean that I think im perfect? No. Does it mean that im the best teacher? no. It just means that I have made incredible progress in all of these categories. Maybe next year Ill be a 6/5.
Describe a professional goal you have for yourself beyond induction. Why have you identified this as a need or interest?
My goal is to take on more leadership roles while continuing to refine and improve my teaching practice. I aim to grow as both a mentor and educator, developing the skills needed to guide others effectively while deepening my own instructional methods.
What actions will you take?
I will apply to the leadership pipeline and continue serving as a facilitator for TEAMS meetings, positioning myself to take on greater leadership responsibilities while honing my communication and organizational skills.
What actions can you take to remain a connected educator throughout your career?
I will embrace technology to simplify my tasks and create more time to focus on what truly matters—my students and their learning. I will stay open-minded by actively collaborating with my colleagues, being willing to try new strategies, and letting go of outdated methods that no longer serve my goals. By remaining adaptable and innovative, I will continue to grow as an educator and better support those around me.
What can you do personally and professionally, to sustain the energy it takes to be passionate about students, teaching, and learning?
I will prioritize work-life balance by setting clear boundaries to prevent burnout and making time for hobbies, exercise, and meaningful social connections. I will commit to continuous learning by staying curious and seeking knowledge beyond the classroom—through reading, exploring new ideas, and staying informed. I will also engage in regular self-reflection, honestly assessing what is working, what isn’t, and why, so I can make intentional changes and continue to grow personally and professionally.
What advice do you have for new teachers entering the profession?
Some days are harder than others—teaching is tough, but it’s important to embrace the challenge and keep going. Be passionate about your field, because enthusiasm is contagious; when you love your subject, your students are more likely to love it too. Stay organized, as a well-ordered environment supports a clear and focused mind. Be conscientious by doing what needs to be done, when it needs to be done—reliability and follow-through matter.