INTASC+9B


 * b. seeks out opportunities to grow professionally**
 * What is this artifact? **

The focus of this artifact centers on my ability and willingness to **seek opportunities to grow professionally**. As a future educator, I am aware of the **importance of professional growth** and believe that it is essential for longevity and success in an ever changing profession. This artifact highlights an **award** I received from the Maryland State Department of Education; I was recognized as being one of the top 136 interns/student teachers from 21 different colleges and universities in Maryland. The **Teacher of Promise Institute** (T.O.P.) pairs graduating college student teachers with a //highly qualified mentor teacher// from the state. My mentor, Susan Cullen, was named the Teacher of the Year for Wicomico County in 2009. This fourth annual event took place on April 23, 2010 in Baltimore, Maryland. It was a daylong workshop focusing on the integration of technology, valuing and analyzing data, while meeting the needs of all learners. This artifact includes the T.O.P. certificate, a picture from the institute and the agenda.


 * Why did you put this artifact in this INTASC principle? **

I chose to use this recognition as an example of 9B, not just for the honor but also for the **future opportunities** I will have to **collaborate** with and **learn from** my new mentor. I also learned a great deal about the //future of teaching// from the guest speakers, Dr. Nancy Grasmick, State Superintendent of Schools, Jay Matthews, Washington Post education journalist, and Julie Evans, CEO of Project Tomorrow and Speak Up. The opportunity to spend the day with such highly qualified and passionate teachers really speaks to the strength of Maryland schools. I am looking forward to **utilizing my new mentor** in the future and learning everything I can from her in order to become the strongest teacher I can.