What is a teacher portfolio?

A Teacher Portfolio is an anthology of achievements that the teacher has accomplished, both in the classroom and elsewhere. Remember that this is a personal document. It is designed to display that teacher's talents and proficiencies. It demonstrates a teacher's knowledge and skills. What the teacher includes is always a matter of intent. The question that should be asked is, "What am I trying to tell the reader about myself?"

Include a letter of resume with the portfolio and with any letter of application. If possible, personally bring your portfolio to the school you are interviewing with at least three days before your interview. This gives the committee time to review it in advance. This is always appreciated. Have your portfolio well organized. This is a personal reflection. It should look very professional.

1. A brief yet interesting biographical sketch, not a lengthy resume or a dissertation on education. A short essay that tells the reader about yourself and what you have done.

2. A description of the kinds of classes you have taught recently. Don't include everything. Review committee time is short. Don't bore them. Tell us the grade level, class content and describe your teaching style.

3. Copies of documents, licenses, tests, etc. Include what graduate classes or in-service seminars you have recently attended. Demonstrate your continuing education and creativity.

4. A short essay about your teaching philosophy, how you teach and why. Avoid any lengthy discourse.

5. Copies of recent lesson or unit plans you have used. Photos of the class engaged in these activities will help. Use 8x10 photos.

6. Creative handouts you have designed, student papers you have graded showing your comments, etc.

7. If you have photographs of your classroom or a videotape of you in action, include it.

8. Peer observations and evaluations, letters of commendation, recognitions or honors you have received.

HOW CAN THIS PORTFOLIO BE USED?

     1. Supervisor assessment

     2. License assessment

     3. Employment interviews

     4. Promotion assessment

     5. Grant application information

     6. Pre-service teacher education programs

ABC Teach Directory

ERIC_Digests

Teacher Portfolios

The Teacher's Portfolio 

eZecia Support Showcase

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