Teacher Development
Continuous learning is central to the job description of a Waldorf teacher. All teachers work with the Principal at the beginning of the school year to set their learning goals and discuss how they wish to grow as a teacher. Out of this, comes an individual professional development plan for each teacher. No matter what stage the teacher is at in their career, self-evaluation plays a part in the process.
The teaching faculties (early childhood and Grades) are the primary support system for our teachers. In faculty meetings, we gain insight from one another on a weekly basis through sharing, study, and pedagogical activities where teachers present learning from their classrooms. We engage in inter-visitations, observing other classrooms both within the school and at Waldorf Schools nearby. Mentorship is another key and an ongoing component that can be part of individual plans. For example, Koeun Buck worked with Lauren Baldwin throughout the 2018-19 school year, who instructed her in the fundamentals of the Waldorf ECE approach and provided in-class support. This year, Astrid has mentored Koeun throughout September. Teachers also connect with mentors from outside the school. This year, both karin burns and Emilie Carrier have been working with Diane Walters through teleconference. I am being mentored by Elyze Pomeranz through the Rudolf Steiner Centre in Toronto. These individual relationships can prove very valuable, as mentors tailor the learning to their particular needs and situations, while offering that most important aspect of human support.