Here's how you can ace a successful performance evaluation for educators.

Understanding performance evaluation criteria is essential to developing one’s professional development plan along with identifying not only your strengths but weakness that need development. The criteria often gives detailed explanation of what is being assessed, therefore in-depth knowledge and understanding of the criteria will help increase your ability to stand out from the rest. Yo able to articulate a couple of areas of need to devise a plan of improvement based upon the criteria. This also demonstrated you are a reflective practitioner.

To understand how your performance will be evaluated, it's best for you to talk about it with your supervisor, coordinator, or the person responsible for watching your work. This way, you can clearly understand expectations and align your daily activities accordingly. It's important to maintain this level of performance consistently, not just for a brief period. It's an everyday commitment when we aim to excel as a great teacher or professors.

Examples provided in this article are great artifacts that can be uploaded to your professional evaluation that demonstrates your professional outcomes. These artifacts also support your professional development goals with regards to progression of achievement. Data speaks louder than words. Don’t be afraid to use data to highlight and celebrate your wins.

Being a reflective practitioner also promotes vulnerability and transparency. It is OK to not be perfect in all areas, as no one will be. We are always developing our skill set and instructional practices as educators. The key is to be able to show how we are making a difference in student learning and then make an impact on a professional outcomes. it is all about growth mindset versus fixed mindset.

Remember evaluation is all about growth and change. Taking this perspective helps us seek out and be open to feedback from our supervisors and our colleagues. We do not hold all of the answers so adopting a collaborative approach to professional development and growth promotes a spirit of openness for support. The difference between a foolish man and a wise man is pride. Do not allow pride to stagnate a better self.

It can be scary, it can be daunting, it might even be confronting but a growth mindset is crucial when walking your performance evaluation journey. Listen with understanding, own any pitfalls and remain open to continuous learning - take the feedback as an opportunity to grow and refine your craft.