Specialists
I would like to extend a warm welcome to all new specialist teachers coming to ASFM. Music, physical education, and art teachers who teach student in pre-kinder through fifth grade, as well as librarians, and full-time substitute teachers make up our team. We are a creative group of people who represent the countries of Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Students in grades 1-5 attend music and art classes once a week and physical education classes twice a week. Students in the early grades attend specialist classes, although the schedule is slightly different. Students receive descriptive letter grades based on a developmental scale plus an effort grade. Report cards and progress reports are each sent out three times a year.
As a team we meet approximately every two to three weeks to discuss school wide issues, and develop strategies to improve and grow in areas that we have in common. Team meetings are a time when all members can talk openly and honestly in a supportive environment. Each subject team also meets to modify and/or develop curriculum and discuss issues specific to their subject area. Opportunities for professional development in specialist areas exist mostly outside of the school at conferences in Texas or Mexico. The school supports teachers in their efforts to seek out and attend workshops, conferences, conventions and participate in classroom observations. It is also possible to earn your Master's degree through classes hosted on campus several times a year.
In addition to teaching responsibilities, specialists lead a weekly enrichment program to students. Most activities take place during lunch time. Past programs have included: a musical, computer club, drawing, Formula 1, book club, and an arts and crafts club, to name a few. The specialist teacher, based on individual talents and areas of student interest, chooses topics for the sessions. Music teachers lead choirs, which perform national anthems throughout the year, as well as present annual performances at various grade levels. The specialist teachers are encouraged to work with the classroom teachers and other specialists to integrate activities into other aspects of grade level curriculum.
For more details about any subject area or general questions about ASFM or Monterrey, please don't hesitate to contact me. Welcome to your new professional adventure; we're looking forward to meeting you!
Sincerely,
The Specialist Team
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