The teacher understands how children learn and develop, recognizing that patterns of learning and development vary individually within and across the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical areas, and designs and implements developmentally appropriate and challenging learning experiences.
Standard 2 - Learning Differences
The teacher uses understanding of individual differences and diverse cultures and communities to ensure inclusive learning environments that allow each learner to reach their full potential.
Standard 3 - Learning Environments
The teacher works with others to create environments that support individual and collaborative learning, and that encourges positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation.
The teacher understands the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) he/she teaches and creates learning experiences that make these aspects of the discipline accessible and meaningful for learners to assure mastery of content.
Standard 5 - Innovative Application of Content
The teacher understands how to connect concepts and use differing perspectives to engage learners in critical/creative thinking and collaborative problem solving related to authentic local and global issues.
The teacher understands and uses multiple methods of assessment to engage learners in their own growth, to document learner progress, and to guide the teacher's ongoing planning and instruction.
Standard 7 - Planning for Assessment
The teacher plans instruction that supports every student in meeting rigorous learning goals by drawing upon knowledge of content areas, curriculum, cross disciplinary skills, and pedagogy, as well as knowledge of learners and the community context.
Standard 8 - Instructional Strategies
The teacher understands and uses a variety of instructional strategies to encourage learners to develop a deep understanding of content areas and their connections, and to biuld skills to apply knowledge in meaningful ways.
Standard 9 - Professional Learning & Ethical Practice
The teacher engages in ongoing professional learning and uses evidence to continually evaluate their practice, particularly the effects of their choices and actions on others (learners, families, other professionals, and the community) and adapts practice to meet the needs of each learner.
The teacher collaborates with students, families, colleagues, other professionals, and community members to share a responsibility for student growth and development, learning, and well-being.