Professional standard 5 “Educators implement effective planning, instruction, assessment and reporting practices to create respectful, inclusive environments for students learning and development”

Implementing standard 5 into the classroom is essential. Standard 5 focuses on creating a positive, inclusive, and safe learning environment within the classroom for all students. As educators it is important to establish and maintain respectful and trusting relationships with students, families, and community. Educators should promote a classroom culture of diversity, equality, and inclusion. In addition, educators should include respectful and inclusive language, maintain appropriate boundaries, and uphold ethical standards. 

What does this standard look like in the classroom? 

Classrooms that uphold and implement this standard have a strong sense of classroom community and belonging. A space that feels safe and culturally inclusive for all its students. Educators can create such a space by implementing culturally responsive teaching practices, such as incorporating diverse perspectives in lesson plans that include inclusive language and respecting’s students’ diverse cultural backgrounds. Classroom community can be built and maintained through lessons that encourage team building. Activities that contribute to team building can be icebreaker games, group projects, and open safe class discussions. Educators can incorporate a culturally diverse classroom by bringing in culturally diverse items into the classroom such as books, lessons that celebrate different cultures traditions and practices. Creating a positive and inclusive learning environments supports students’ growth and success. 

Standard 5 can be represented in the classroom by educators building strong relationships with their students. Strong relationships can be built by getting to know each student individually by building connections and open communication. Educators can work with both the student’s families and community to support their student’s well-being and academic success. By prioritizing the student’s best interest first and creating a supportive safe learning environments educators can create a space that will allow students to reach their full potential.