Classroom Standards

Will your classroom be “up to standard”? When you enter the classroom, you will be expected to differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all students as well as teach lessons that ensure achievement of state standards. That may sound like a tall order or “something to worry about later.” But don’t. Begin now to prepare for all of your students and for excellence in teaching. Success starts during training.

To help you be the well-prepared teacher, we suggest that you choose courses and field experiences that provide focus in the following areas: differentiation of instruction, special education, and working with students of diverse backgrounds and learning styles. You most likely will encounter these challenges in your future classrooms, and each of these areas requires customizing instruction.

We (a district superintendent and a staff development coordinator) recommend taking courses in special education, especially those that address how to modify instruction to meet the legal requirements of students’ Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and simultaneously achieve state standards. In addition, prospective teachers must conduct an extensive investigation into state standards for the area or region where they plan to seek employment. Keep this phrase in mind: Knowledge is power.

Conscientiously observe best practices and differentiated instruction. Become familiar with school curricula applying to state and national standards during field experiences and student teaching. Ask to observe several teachers in the school(s) where you carry out your field experiences.

Further prepare by learning about the curricula and induction programs for the districts at which you apply. Search prospective districts’ Web sites or request hard copies of curricula documents. Once employed, you will be expected to be thoroughly familiar with the district’s approved curricula, and that includes more than the textbooks! Also learn about how the district supports new teachers to meet the needs of diversified learners. A school’s professional-development program should include a support system for first-year teachers.

About the Authors
Superintendent Ralph P. Ferrie and Staff Development Coordinator Lew Stonaker serve the Monroe Township School District in Monroe, NJ.