I've served on the SIP (school improvement plan) committee for two different schools. They were two very different experiences but that is a whole separate issue (it amazes me how things that should be standard, or even at the very least similar, within an organization, can be so very different). The thing that I struggled with the most though was writing the mission, vision, and values. It always seemed so repetitive and I never had a good grasp of what those things were supposed to be.
As I plan for the upcoming school year however I've been thinking a lot about the type of classroom I want to create. There are already so many things that I want to do in terms of instructional methods that I believe will rely on a certain classroom culture being created. Towards that end I've decided to write vision, mission, and values statements for my classroom.
I've jotted down a few rough notes of what I might want to include.
Vision (it makes more sense to me to start with this):
A collaborative classroom environment where authentic, relevant, and engaging learning occurs that focuses on 21st century skills needed to be ____ (college and career ready?) (globally competitive?-seems a little arrogant of myself)
Mission:
Help students think critically and analytically (are those the same thing?), develop real world problem solving skills through scientific inquiry, and develop an appreciation for the sciences through engaging content material.
Values:
Teaching needs to fundamentally change in order to reach every child. (I'm not in love with how this is phrased.)
Authentic (real life?) activities and choice create the most student engagement and motivation.
Learning happens when students feel safe to take risks and work together to solve problems.
Science is awesome! (As silly as this may be, I think it's an important value. If I don't have passion for my subject, how can the kids?)
So there it is. I'd love any feedback! PLN's rock!
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