Week 2

This week, we talked about data during our on-line class. Being a math teacher I find the data interesting and something that is very over looked. We often test and test and research but look for the only data that supports their claim. Our district has changed to rules for how we mark students tardy to class. They can be marked tardy for up to one minute after the bell rings, once it has passed the one minute mark, they are considered absent. Recently we were presented data that the students who were marked tardy to first hour was down by 20%. We were, however, not presented data on the number of students who were marked absent.

Data can be a powerful piece towards getting others to support our viewpoint. When we make students take standardized test data is generated for us. We need to create a team of teachers and administrators to analyze that data. The data is pointless if it is not able to be used to better the students that take it. One of the biggest issues withe the WKCE is the timing in which educators get the results of their students. We need to start examining the data we are offered and differentiate when necessary to ensure our students are getting the most out of every year.

Another thing we were asked to examine this week was being a teacher leader through our readings. When I applied for my current job the head principal started listing the number of people who would take part of my face to face interview and it was up to eight people. Having worked with my department, I can't imagine having someone else do a "blind hire" for our department. When we speak of when I was hired they noted that I was a good fit for the department. We all share an office and need to be able to be effective communicators with each other. I did participated in interview where there was just the principal interviewing me and it was frustrating when they were finally forthright at the end that they have had a long-term sub who has also applied for the job. I know that my department was comfortable with the decision they made because they were respected enough to have their opinion asked for. So many times it is easier and/or more efficient to make the choice ourselves, but when you can collaborate with colleagues a community is built and you have a better chance of being an effective teacher and group of teachers.