A. Compare your Initial CSTP with Final CSTP. What were your areas of strength?
My areas of strength were in the areas of of CSTP 1 Engaging and Supporting All Students in Learning and CSTP 6 Developing as a Professional Educator.
What are your opportunities for continuous improvement?
My opportunities for continuous growth were in the area of CSTP 2 Creating and Maintaining Effective Environments. I do not have textbooks or a sink in my art room.
In what ways have you surprised yourself?
I surprised myself by creating an effective digital environment for my students.
B. Describe a professional goal you have for yourself beyond induction. Why have you identified this as a need or interest? What actions will you take? How will you asses goal attainment?
A professional goal I have for myself beyond induction is working towards my National Board in Art Education. I identified this as a need and interest because I have gone through the National Board process for special education and it helped me grow as a teacher. I would like to earn my National Board in art to help me grow as an art teacher. It is also beneficial because if we move out of state again then I will be certified. The actions that I am taking is that I am currently a candidate for my Art Education National Board. I will assess my goal attainment through reflective practice.
C. What actions can you take to remain a connected educator throughout your career?
The actions I can take to remain a connected educator throughout my career is to be a part of professional organizations and learning communities.
D. what can you do personally and professionally, to sustain the energy it takes to be passionate about students, teaching, and learning?
I can keep learning new skills as an artist and share them with my students.
E. Include one quote from your reflective coach or administrator about your talents or strengths.
"As a dedicated professional, Mrs. Gilford works with her students in all capacities: she
continually innovates her lesson plans to fit the needs of all her students; those who love
art, the Link Crew leaders and those who are finding their artistic abilities. Her love for
art and design is obvious in each of her lessons in the way that she provides positive and
specific feedback to her students and her thoughtful approach to the process of a unit.
Each unit includes specific goals for students that are clearly communicated with
examples and clear criterion."
F. What advice do you have for new teachers entering the profession?
Keep learning and growing. Your love of learning will translate with your students.