My View on Curriculum

Reflection on Professional Growth in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment

This course has significantly deepened my understanding of curriculum planning, instruction, and assessment. I have gained insights into the importance of collaboration, comprehensive knowledge of existing curriculum, and adaptability to meet the unique needs of each learning community. These lessons have not only enhanced my professional skills and dispositions but also reshaped my perception of the principal’s role as a curriculum leader.

Growth in Professional Skills

One of the most impactful lessons from this course is the critical role of collaboration in curriculum planning. Previously, I viewed curriculum decisions as largely administrative. Now, I recognize that engaging teachers in evaluating and refining curriculum is essential. Teachers’ input ensures that the curriculum is relevant and practical for daily instruction. Research supports this approach, emphasizing that teacher collaboration increases curriculum effectiveness and staff investment (Donohoo, 2017).

In addition, this course emphasized the need for deep knowledge of the current curriculum. It is not enough to simply identify gaps; leaders must understand what the curriculum offers and how to maximize its potential. This requires equipping teachers with the tools and training they need to implement the curriculum effectively. As Fullan (2016) asserts, professional development that empowers teachers leads to greater student success. This insight has motivated me to prioritize ongoing training and support for educators.

Growth in Professional Dispositions

My professional dispositions have also evolved. I have a renewed appreciation for adaptability and contextual relevance in curriculum planning. Each school community has unique demographics, cultures, and needs, and what works in one setting may not work in another. Effective leaders must approach curriculum evaluation with “fresh eyes,” balancing past experiences with present realities. This mindset promotes inclusivity and ensures that curriculum decisions are responsive to the needs of all students.

I also value the importance of being open-minded and collaborative. Engaging in discussions with staff and stakeholders fosters a sense of shared purpose and collective efficacy. This disposition aligns with servant leadership principles, emphasizing the importance of supporting teachers and students to achieve their best outcomes.

Perception of the Principal Role as Curriculum Leader

This course has fundamentally changed how I view the principal’s role in curriculum leadership. A principal is not merely an enforcer of policies but a visionary leader who fosters collaboration, drives professional development, and ensures that curriculum decisions align with the school’s mission and vision. Principals must navigate internal factors, such as staff dynamics and resource availability, as well as external factors, such as state standards and policy changes.

Effective principals act as facilitators, creating spaces for teachers to share insights and develop strategies that meet student needs. They also champion equity, ensuring that all students have access to high-quality instruction tailored to their unique learning profiles. By fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, principals can lead their schools toward academic excellence and holistic development.

Conclusion

This course has been transformative, broadening my understanding of curriculum planning and enhancing my professional skills and dispositions. I now approach curriculum decisions with a greater emphasis on collaboration, deep knowledge, and adaptability. My perception of the principal’s role has evolved to encompass a more holistic, servant-leader perspective focused on fostering collaboration and equity. Moving forward, I am committed to applying these insights to create inclusive, effective learning environments that meet the diverse needs of students and educators alike.

References

Donohoo, J. (2017). Collective efficacy: How educators’ beliefs impact student learning. Corwin Press.

Fullan, M. (2016). The new meaning of educational change (5th ed.). Teachers College Press.