Mirna Reyes-Henderson

​Reflection 2020-2025

I completed my evaluation at Foxcroft Academy in the fall of 2024. Mr. Jonathan Pratt conducted my observation and evaluation.

A. Planning and Preparation for Learning
In the past five years, I have learned the importance of always being prepared for the unforeseen needs of students. For example, I always have extra activities available if something does not work for students and/or if the content is retained faster than anticipated. In addition, the activities I provided were planned by considering Bloom’s Taxonomy and utilizing more summative and formative assessment methods. This year, I used different formative assessments to check on student learning and to help them improve their academics. I have been implementing many ideas about formative assessment that I have learned at the University of Maine. Lastly, I have worked hard to ensure that there is a balance between all of the standards we have. Sometimes, it is challenging to balance them because of my unique group of students during each course and the amount of practice the students need in each standard.

One of my future goals is to incorporate more speaking activities into the IB curriculum to enhance my lessons and prepare my students for the IB oral assessment. In addition, I want to include more formative assessments in all levels of Spanish to check student understanding and help those who struggle in class. 

B. Classroom Management
The past few years have been quite challenging regarding student engagement and respect towards authority figures like myself after the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite my efforts to provide a variety of ways to complete assignments and offer extended deadlines when necessary, some students still did not complete their work. Witnessing their lack of effort was frustrating, especially since I knew their potential. 

While my classes presented some challenges, I have resolved many of the issues that arose. This past and current year have significantly improved student participation and respect. The students in the first semester were generally willing to learn and displayed respect for me. The semester passed quickly, and I felt much enthusiasm during this time. This second semester, I have a group of students who are engaged and willing to learn the language. 

I have particularly enjoyed working with my IB, Level III, and IV. So far, I have connected with most of them, and their performance has improved. I have implemented various strategies to accommodate different learning needs and levels. My teaching assistants have also been invaluable, providing one-on-one support to struggling students in levels I and II. One of my future goals is to learn different techniques to motivate students who struggle in class and to continue learning how to meet students' needs.

C. Delivery of Instruction
I encourage students to take risks, as learning a second language often requires stepping out of their comfort zones. I ensure that shy students have the opportunity to excel in class. As a native speaker, I possess extensive knowledge of the subject and consistently demonstrate confidence in the classroom. I will continue developing activities to support students who are afraid to speak and provide after-school assistance for those lacking confidence in the classroom.

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D. Monitoring, Assessment, and Follow-Up
I completed my CAS in Instruction and Curriculum Development from the University of Maine in 2023. I aim to create a comprehensive Spanish curriculum that meets students' diverse needs and assist other department members in developing a curriculum that anyone can follow.

E. Family and Community Outreach
This year, I have continued communicating with parents through email and invited them to join my Google Classroom. If parents are more comfortable with phone calls, I inform them of the times I am available. I will continue calling parents as needed.

I used this form of communication because I could quickly notify the parents and was comfortable using email. 

F. Professional Responsibilities

I have continued my participation in the Summer Institute at the University of Maine, where I have learned various techniques to adapt my lessons for different levels of students. Additionally, I attended the Foreign Language Association of Maine (Now EMME) conference and hope to attend the ACTFL conference in August 2025.

My goal is to actively participate in meetings and collaborate with my department. Communication is essential for developing good relationships with others.