DEVELOPMENT PLAN

As part of my commitment to ongoing professional growth, I continuously seek opportunities to expand my understanding of effective teaching and learning practices. In 2023, I attended the QPAT Convention, which exposed me to current educational research, innovative classroom strategies, and diverse perspectives from experienced educators. The sessions I participated in deepened my awareness of the social, emotional, and cultural influences that shape student engagement and learning outcomes. They also encouraged me to reflect critically on my own teaching philosophy and the evolving nature of my professional identity. Engaging with other professionals during the convention strengthened my sense of belonging to a broader educational community and reinforced my responsibility to remain adaptable, reflective, and student-centered in my practice.

Being part of an I.B. school early in my teaching career has been an incredibly valuable and formative experience. The opportunity to engage in weekly advancement meetings and co-plan with colleagues has immersed me in a culture of collaboration, inquiry, and reflective practice. These sessions not only help ensure alignment with the I.B. framework, but they also provide a space for meaningful dialogue around pedagogy, student engagement, and transdisciplinary learning. Exposure to the I.B. philosophy—particularly its emphasis on global-mindedness, concept-driven instruction, and the development of the whole child—has greatly expanded my perspective on what it means to be an educator. Gaining this level of insight so early in my professional journey equips me with a strong foundation for future growth. It allows me to build a toolkit of innovative strategies and a deeper understanding of international best practices that I can carry forward in any educational setting. This experience is shaping not only how I teach, but who I am becoming as a teacher.

I was presented with the amazing opportunity to take part in the BREATHE program workshop alongside my students, and it has been a transformative experience in my professional development. The program, which focuses on teaching mindfulness techniques to manage stress and anxiety, has greatly influenced my teaching practice. By participating in this workshop, I gained practical strategies to help students develop emotional regulation and resilience through breathing exercises and mindfulness activities. Integrating these techniques into my classroom has allowed me to foster a more supportive learning environment where students can manage stress effectively and stay focused. This experience has not only enhanced my teaching but has also deepened my personal teacher identity. It has reinforced the importance of addressing students' mental health alongside their academic growth, helping me become a more empathetic and reflective educator who values the holistic development of every child.

I had the privilege of attending the PEDDAY workshop day hosted by the school board, where I chose to participate in the "Supporting All Learners" session. This workshop significantly broadened my understanding of inclusive teaching practices and provided me with valuable strategies to support students with diverse learning needs. It focused on ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their individual challenges. Through a series of practical sessions, I learned how to implement differentiated instruction, adapt materials, and utilize various support tools to meet the needs of all learners in my classroom. The workshop also highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and understood. This experience has had a lasting impact on my teaching approach, helping me create a more flexible and responsive classroom that celebrates diversity and promotes equitable learning opportunities for every student. It has deepened my commitment to developing a space where all students can thrive, both academically and socially.