Teachers are Committed to Student Learning
Standard 1: A Vision of Learning
A school administrator is an educational leader who promotes the success of all students by facilitating the development, articulation, implementation, and stewardship of a vision of learning that is shared and supported by the greater community.
Rationale
In our school we use a great system of behavior that guides and aligns our schools central vision. We use a “Levels of Behavior” chart that illustrates how each child should act and treat each other. (See Chart Below) The chart is a reference point for not only behavior but also ties directly to student achievement.
In the beginning of the year, each teacher is responsible for teaching the students about the Levels of Behavior as well as developing a system that will allow the student to visibly see their level. I have included a slide show that I use to illustrate these behaviors and their impact on student learning (above). Using this framework, sets clear expectations and overall allows the students to become aware of their own choices and how those choices can impact their learning.
Reflection
I always look forward to this lesson with all of my classes as it sets the structure and tone for the rest of the year. I believe that this central vision is the key to a successful school year and sends a message of community throughout the school. No matter where a student is or what classroom they’re in, the students are held to this school-wide universal set of standards.
The visual system that partners the levels is perhaps the most important tool. It allows the students to visually see what level they are on at any moment during the day. (See colors in Chart above) This allows the students to make a much clearer connection with their own behavior setting visible expectations for each student.
The Levels of Behavior is a great way to re-focus a schools vision on academic achievement through democratic practices. It places ownership on the student, allowing them to take responsibility for their actions and in turn owning their learning. It also allows the student to recognize and understand his or her own behavior in a very clear and measurable way. It gives the students a framework for the choices they make and how their choices can impact their success.
