Educators implement effective planning, instruction, assessment and reporting practices to create respectful, inclusive environments for students learning and development.

Educators have the knowledge and skills to facilitate learning for students, including learning experiences that reflect individual contexts and local environments. Educators value collaborative practice. Educators recognize and understand the interconnectedness of all aspects of teaching and learning and employ a variety of instructional and assessment strategies. Educators communicate effectively in either English or French. Educators know when to seek support for their practice and for students.

Practicing Collaboration: Lessons from Cottonwood

As a Block 1 teacher candidate, I had multiple opportunities to practice Standard 5—collaborating to enhance student learning and working effectively with colleagues. One memorable experience was our morning at Cottonwood Park, where we worked together to design a lesson plan centered on place-based learning.

Despite being only two months into the course, I quickly realized the benefits of collaborating with other teacher candidates. Working in a group of three or four allowed us to approach the task efficiently and professionally. Our communication was respectful, with every member actively listening and valuing each other’s ideas. This mutual respect fostered a productive and positive environment where creativity could flourish.

Collaboration also gave us the chance to function as a unified team with shared goals. Each of us brought diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences to the table, which enriched our discussion and helped us generate a wide array of ideas and solutions. This diversity of thought not only strengthened our lesson plan but also highlighted the value of drawing on different strengths to achieve a common objective.

Additionally, the encouragement and support I received from my peers were invaluable. Knowing that I had a team of supportive colleagues boosted my morale and motivation, making the process not only productive but also enjoyable.

This experience reinforced the importance of collaboration in teaching, not just as a means to achieve better outcomes but as an opportunity to learn from one another and build strong professional relationships. It was a powerful reminder that teaching is, at its core, a collective effort aimed at nurturing growth and learning.