Appreciating the learning we measure
As a teacher who loves learning data, I enjoy having this Spring MAP data to verify the amazing academic learning I see my students engaging in all year. However, with any testing event, I keep in mind the variables involved and view the MAP data as one of many assessments data sources I use to assess academic growth. On the last day (Tuesday, June 16th) you will receive a final kindergarten progress report for your student.
..... While remembering to value the learning we don't measure
~ We are creative
~ We are collaborative, compassionate citizens of the world.
~ We learn everywhere, we learn together.
~ We encourage each other to think critically and learn more.
~ We are self-directed learners.
As a staff, we believe that allowing these pillars to guide our learning decisions will allow our student to develop resilience, perseverance and grit. And most importantly, we hope that our students will develop a love of learning.
There is not a state test that assesses our students' development in these areas, but I see evidence of this growth every day. I see evidence of this pillar learning all day every day. I see it when our marble jar helper does a count down and every student is showing voices, bodies, and brains. When I am giving a mini lesson on the carpet or my students are sitting in our class meeting circle, I can count on them to really listen to me and each other with engaged brains. Daily, I see children who have learned to respond to the routines and expectations of their classroom in a manner that helps their learning and the learning of their classmates. I see students solving small problems that come up during their work and play without asking adults for help. I see students letting others in, including each other in play and conversation. I see students working collaboratively together to create group art products and research African Animals and solve math problems. These students are able to assess how effectively they are working together and can identify ways they can work together even better. During choice time, I see students laughing together and playing together and creating together.
I am so happy to be a teacher in a learning community that values learning, in academic areas and beyond! Thank you for the nurturing and support you have provided your student this year. Thank you for getting them to school each day filled with curiosity and kindness and an eagerness for learning. Thank you for being such involved participants on your child's school journey.
I am so proud of all they have accomplished!