Creating an Environment of Learner-Centered Culture

Week of February 9, 2015

The topic for this week’s #slowchatGSD is the LEARNING ENVIRONMENT of our school culture.Once we establish a safe, respectful, academically challenging environment in our individual classrooms, how might we unleash that energy into the hallways and throughout entire buildings?

While the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Educator Effectiveness model carries a connotation of judgment and extra work, the purpose of the evaluation process is to promote individual growth supported by evidence of learning and reflection–much like our expectations of students. If we want to establish a learner-centered culture, educators should model intellectual curiosity, academic risk-taking, and a growth mindset.

Teacher performance standard: Learning Environment
Indicators
5.1 Establishes and maintains effective routines and procedures.
5.2 Creates and maintains a safe physical setting.
5.3 Establishes a climate of trust and teamwork by being fair, caring, respectful, and enthusiastic.
5.4 Promotes respectful interactions that challenge and engage…