Partnerships

What Makes a Strong Partnership?

Strong co-teachers provide seamless instruction for their students. Both teachers must come to a mutual agreement that they are equals in the classroom, and students must perceive both teachers as invaluable members of the classroom community. This can be particularly difficult for teachers who have taught alone for many years. Sometimes we don't realise how many decisions we make alone in our classroom on a daily basis. Making decisions as a team is key to a strong partnership, but it is often an adjustment for veteran teachers.

This happens quite often at first. Strong co-teachers do not always agree on everything, but they realise that the time for disagreement is not during class.

Finally, strong co-teachers solve problems together. In fact, that is the best part of co-teaching; you're never in it alone. 

Benefits of Co-Teaching

Having two minds in a classroom community allows students to connect with different personalities. Collaborative allows more opportunities for small group and one-to-one learning, and stronger modelling during lessons. The co-planning process encourages two teachers to bounce ideas off each other in order to deliver the strongest, most creative lessons. Partnerships can model behaviour and positive peer-to-peer interaction for students. When students experience their teachers working together, they understand the power of respect amongst peers.

Let's not forget the most important part: it is nice to have another adult in the room! I loved the community we develop in our class. Teaching is overwhelming, but collaborative teaching can provide a support system so that we can do our jobs, yet remember to have fun along the way.

5 Tips!

1. Say this mantra: "All students are our students."
2. Come to planning meetings prepared (with an agenda) to maximise co-planning time.
3. If you feel something, say something! Open communication is the key to a successful partnership. (At the right time, not in front of the class)
4. Realise that the success of your class depends on the strength of your teaching relationship.
5. Use a variety of co-teaching models to help maintain equality.