“As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart.”
Proverbs 27:19
The ability to reflect on our practices as teachers is invaluable. This is the process by which we identify strengths and areas of growth. As educators, especially Christian educators, this is the process by which we determine if our school year honored who God has created us to be and the students He placed in our classrooms. Daily reflection on our practices as teachers is necessary for short-term growth. Summer reflection, though, is necessary for long-term and lasting growth as educators.
Here are a few question stems to help you engage in meaningful reflection as you end the school year and prepare for next year:
- Love for God
-What part of the year did I experience a strong love for God?
-What part of the year did I rely on my own understanding? Why?
-Where did I see specific prayers answered in my classroom and school family?
-Is there something in my daily routine at home and in the classroom that is hindering me from spending time with the Lord? How can I be proactive to change that this upcoming year?
- Love for neighbor
-Where did I interact well with parents, colleagues, and students? What made the difference?
-Where did I not interact well with parents, colleagues, and students? What needs to change in my own heart?
-Is there something in my daily routine at school that is hindering me from loving my family, church community, and those outside of school well? How can I be proactive to change that this upcoming year?
- Making disciples
-Where did I spend the most quality time with students? How can that be a place I spend time this upcoming year?
-Where did I not want to spend time with students (e.g., lunch, recess, sitting next to students on the bus) this year? What kept me from meaningful engagement & discipleship opportunities during these times? How can I make time with students a priority next year?
-How did I engage with students outside of the classroom? Who do I wish I engaged with outside of the classroom, and how can I be proactive to change that this upcoming year?
Before reflecting on your teaching practices, invite the Holy Spirit to illuminate areas that have otherwise been hidden or misunderstood. He has promised to guard our hearts and minds, so trust Him in the process of reflection.
Be well and blessed.