APA style Analysis Reflection

Director interview

How do you encourage students to explore there learning?

I encourage students to learn by exploring, by setting up the classroom with different activities related to the theme of the month. For example, it the theme of the month was Fall and Harvest, then the math station would have objects like corn kernels, candy corns to be used as counters with math cards. In the science station, I would set up different shaped leaves and colors for them to explore difference is size, shape and color as well as have a pumpkin split in half for them to explore and learn.

2. What do you use to assess your students progress?

I use a variety of assessment tools to assess students’ progress. These vary from observation, which means simply observing how the child is able to complete a task to, watching them interacting with peers in a group activity. Another tool for assessment is daily verbal quizzes, in which I ask questions at circle time related to a topic we covered that week. The final assessment tool would be an end of topic assessment which would vary in format according to the age group I am working with.

3. How effective is the special education services?

The Special Education Service is very effective once the child has been screened and their special needs identified. My experience has been that is takes a long time to receive the services, however Special educators help improve the quality of education for the student as well and help teachers better provide the student with the tools needed to help them succeed.

4. What do if the parents disagree with the School about my child’s needs?

It is very important for teachers to collect samples of each students work as they progress throughout the year. It is especially important to collect and document a child progress whom the teacher has a concern about. If the need to inform the parents of the concern arises, the documents progress will be of great use as a tool to help parents understand the reasons for the teacher’s concern.

5. How often you meet with parent to discuss their child progress? Do you meet with them on regular

basses or when is there need?

I believe in being in constant contact with the parents of the students. This can be done in a variety of ways from emails and newsletters, to individual phone calls and meetings on a regular basis. I also constantly reassure the parents that their concerns are inquiries are always welcome to be addressed and discussed.

6. How to make sure that your school and teachers are in the right track of not being sued by parents?

I ensure that the teachers and parents are protected by constantly making sure that all rules and regulations issued by the DHS, are being followed and exercised. If there is a concern, with a rule or regulation not being followed, immediate action is taken to correct it. If the teacher or parent continues to make the same mistake, this is documented and the person in question is asked to sign the incident form written. If the rule or regulation is broken 3 times, the Director should take drastic actions such as putting the teacher under constant supervision or even disqualify the teacher or parent from the Day Care altogether.

7.How to maintain a good relationship with your teachers? And parents?

Good relationship with teachers and parents come with building trust. Trust is built by making a daily effort to communicate with the staff and parents. For example; asking teachers if they need anything throughout the day. If teachers need any help or have any concerns, these are addressed in a timely fashion. As well, encouraging teachers by paying attention to all their hard work and dedication to the job is always a good way to build trust. As for parents, taking a few minutes everyday to ask them how they are or, to tell them something about their child you observed, as well as addressing their concerns is important. Another form of building relationships is having Parent Teacher Conferences, school events and workshops.

8. What is the. most important contribution to the daily operations of your school?

Attendance. Knowing the total number of children in the building, the number of children in each classroom and what time they arrive and leave each day.

Administration Questions

1. How to make sure that your school and teachers are in the right track of not being sued by parents? 

The school holds an in-service week at the beginning of school year to train teachers on all the policies and procedures that help create a safe and healthy environment for both teachers and students. In addition, teachers are reminded throughout the year when issues arise.

2. How to maintain a good relationship with your teachers? And parents?

The school administration works hard on maintaining a positive climate for teachers. They tend to their emotional and social needs, consider their family obligation, value their work and input, and recognize their success through providing gifts and lunch.

For parents, the school puts a strong emphasis on communication as a key factor for building trust and hence creating good relationship. Weekly newsletters, videos, emails, phone calls, and conferences are few ways of building a positive relationship.

3. What is the most important contribution to the daily operations of your school?

Establishing procedures, showing a lot of care and understanding

4. What do you use to assess students’ progress?

Students are always assessed informally through observation, exit tickets, group activities, and quick checks. At the end of each unit or chapter, they are assessed through a test or a project. At the end of each quarter, they take benchmark test in math and reading. At the end of the year, they take ITBS standardize test.

5. How do you motivate students to face their reading problem?

After evaluating students and identifying their needs, I work with students to build their reading skills. Students are encouraged to check out books at the lower end of their ZPD in order to build their confidence. When they reach their AR goals, they attend an AR party to recognize their achievement where they receive prizes.