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I will begin my 29th year teaching here in Las Virgenes! Wow, I am very proud of that fact, but it truly does not feel that I have been at it that long. There are always new and challenging curriculum changes, new students every year, new colleagues, new methods to try. I feel that I earned my 4 in the Comfort Zone, but know that I am always learning. I also do not feel anywhere near boredom or burnout. I am confident that with a mixture of innovative strategies that we are learning and the old tried and true strategies, that I am the best teacher I can be. I had to learn to how to add a reflection on padlet!, I learned more 360 practices, I have been reading up on our new language arts program which is huge, and definitely enjoying learning how to become more resilient and more of a curious learner in this course. I have been accused of not being good at change, but I am always open to new learning, even if sometimes I need a little nudge. :)

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I scored a 4 on the Rookie Smarts quiz which puts me right in the middle of the comfort zone. I have changed grades multiple times in my six years of teaching (1 year in 3rd, 3 years in 4th, and 2 years in 5th). I feel comfortable in the upper grades because (for the most part) I know what to expect. I don't think being in the comfort zone is necessarily a bad thing. It's the confidence that comes from being comfortable that allows me to try new things. Either way, I have jumped back into the learning zone because I have started a new adventure teaching Kindergarten this year! I'm looking forward to a year of learning but I do miss the confidence I had going into previous school years.

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If I would have taken this quiz a year and a half ago, I believe my results would have been different. I scored a 7 - the learning zone - which is fairly accurate. After starting a new position after 11 years of teaching mostly the same courses, I was pushed from the comfort zone to the learning zone. This year presented so many challenges and also inspired me to make changes to my curriculum. Teaching the same courses year after year can be stifling, so this last year I decided to change parts of the curriculum. The year was challenging and some risks I took worked really well, and others didn't, but in the end, my students and I were all okay! I'm going to continue to make changes to keep myself on my toes. This upcoming year will allow me to continue to make shifts and grow as a teacher and a learner, which I'm looking forward to!

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I scored a 8 which puts me in the Learning Zone. I think it is pretty accurate. I always feel like there is something to learn, a better way to do things and be more efficient. On a personal level, I am always challenging myself and I enjoy learning new things. I never feel like I am an expert, to the contrary, I have no problem seeking others for advice and I want to learn from them. Sometimes, I tend to take on too much at once and feel overwhelmed. This can be a disadvantage of always wanting to learn and challenge myself. I have to remind myself that sometimes it is okay to relax and do nothing. This is when my daughter grounds me and forces me to slow down, which is a necessary thing.

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I scored a 9 which apparently equates to burning up! These quizzes are always difficult for me because I always feel there's always something to improve on which makes it difficult to click on the "never" or "always"  extreme options, which in a quiz may appear like I'm selling myself short. It's also interesting because I found myself questioning if I should be answering the questions in the mindset I had in April/May (the end of my first year at LVUSD and second year overall) or how I am feeling now, starting at a new school next year with brand new preps, curriculum, and age groups.  In a way, I am feeling like I am about to start my first year of teaching again, which is exciting and nerve wracking.

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I scored a 9 so I'm apparently burning up. I must say that I just finished a difficult year and I also just finished the class on Grading For Mastery. Both have filled me with the strong mandate to be a "mover" and not just "movable", meaning I always listen to new things, make plans to change, and don't implement them for many reasons. I also think I could have gone different ways on many of the questions asked and do wonder what changing the answers  one up or down on several questions would have done. I'm thinking that I'm glad I didn't score in the Comfort Zone, but I have to really beware of not being in the Learning Zone and trying to do too much, or not feeling I've done enough when I try to implement new things. Finally, I really need to focus on collaborating with my department more effectively as the year progress, and even as the day progresses. It's great to have the Wednesday collaboration time build into the LCMS schedule, but that time is often filled with mandated tasks. The type of collaboration that would get me back into the Learning Zone (or make me feel like I'm in the Learning Zone when I answer the questions ;) would be more flexible, somewhat daily collaboration. With all the busy schedules, I'm thinking more of an online blog...we tried that before and everyone started it with good intentions, but then dropped it exactly when we all probably needed it the most!

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I scored a 7 in the learning zone. I have been teaching for about 7 years now, and a big part of me feels that because I have been teaching for this long, I am able to operate in the learning zone and enjoy it. I’m thankful that I have reached the point where I’m not just desperately trying to keep my head above water—I have gained enough confidence and knowledge where I feel good about trying new things and taking risks. Taking on news classes, collaborating with colleagues, juggling 3+ preps every year, and participating in certain professional developments like IB conferences, ERWC workshops, and these LVUSD summer courses, have helped keep me in the learning zone.

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I scored 7 in the "Learning Zone.” I would say that the quiz result pretty much described me doing the teaching job. Being a Mandarin Chinese teacher, I teach all levels, and the top level is normally a co-seating class – Last year, in this one class there were students in level IV, V, AP, and few IB kids. I had to work on finding the supplemental materials constantly. Not to mention that I still had to do the prep for other levels. Now looking back, I have to admit that doing the preps and implement the lessons were challenging. At the time, I had to ask questions from our IB coordinator and seek help from other IB teachers. They were all very helpful with giving guidance and supports. The IB exam results came out two weeks ago. The IB students passed the exam, they are ready to move forward in pursuing their dream college.

Now after reading “Rookie Smarts” book, I think I am well prepared to keep up with a rookie mindset. For the coming school year or school years, I hope that I would continue the journey to learn and grow in the profession as the entire educational world is changing.

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Yeah! I am in the Learning Zone and this is where I like to be. I simply went into teaching because I love learning. I find my work challenging enough to think creatively and try risks. I seek out expertise from my partner teacher, who I love as a mentor. Actually all of my colleagues are open to questions and input because we are all striving together. I find successes in each day, and I am also reflective and make a goal each day.

(side note: really enjoyed reading about Magic!)

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I scored a 5 in the "Comfort Zone." This score surprised me. Only having 4 years of teaching experience, I expected I would be in the learning zone. Perhaps the results are influenced by the fact that I just came back from my honeymoon and am still in relaxation mode! The explanation for being in the comfort zone stated "Your work has become routine and it has become easy to operate on autopilot." While I would not describe any day in the classroom as "easy", I can see how the way I answered some questions could lead to this. Knowing the curriculum better and better with each given year has made teaching less of a challenge, but there are so many other factors that influence teaching that I feel as if I am still seeking help and feedback from my peers on an almost daily basis.

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I scored an 8 in the "Learning Zone".  I was not surprised by my score because of the reality of being a new teacher.  I am constantly creating new curriculum and seeking counsel from more experienced educators.  Although some times I am overwhelmed, I try very hard to seek advice before being burnt out.  Although this is just my first year, I believe I can continue to stay in the learning zone. I cannot imagine being stuck in the comfort zone and working through the motions of life. I do not work the best when I am bored and will continue to challenge myself in my career.

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I scored a 7 which puts me in the Learning Zone. The past school year, I had to learn a new literacy intervention program and implement new assessments. It presented a challenge because I felt an urgency to learn and use the new program at the start of the school year. I have been seeking the expertise of others, especially when it comes to increasing my use of technology and implementing innovative ways to create an effective learning environment. Although I've been teaching for many years I want to feel productive and successful at the end of each day. It is my hope that by becoming familiar with the latest research and a new generation of thinking I will gain the tools and mindset to grow as an educator and enhance the way I instruct and serve others.

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I scored a 7.  Although I have been teaching 30 years, I always feel that there is something new being given to teachers and it is hard not to be continually learning.  I was surprised I didn't score in the "Red Zone" because I am tired at the end of the day and there are times I feel like I am burnt out. I guess even as over-loaded as I feel at times, I am still taking on new challenges. I am not one to hesitate to ask for advice. I do hesitate to ask for physical help and I think that is part of the reason I am tired at the end of the day. I know being in the "Comfort Zone" is not the ideal for "Rookie Smarts", but sometimes I wish I was there

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I scored an 8, in the "Learning Zone." I think as teacher in some aspects I do change things up and try to learn new things.  I am guilty of rearranging my room, randomly seeing a new idea and trying it out, or modifying my classroom management halfway through the year.  In all honesty though, I feel like the score is a reflection of my personal life. Being summer,  I feel like probably had my mind on family and home life.  I am definitely a rookie at being a mother of two! Always learning and modifying things for my two little ducklings.

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I scored a 7 which both surprises me (and makes me wonder if I answered the questions the way they were intended) and also seems about right given my personality. Falling into the "Learning Zone" is a bit surprising given that I will be going into my 13th year teaching roughly the same grade levels and subjects; you'd think that at this point there would be nothing left to learn! I also do feel as if there are many days where, as one of the questions stated, I "feel bored, but somehow still exhausted". I think this speaks to the fact that there are many times where teaching the same content over and over and very often using the same activities over and over can be a bit mind-numbing, but still the execution of those activities and the sheer task of classroom management is utterly exhausting (regardless of how rote the material has become. However, the reason this score did NOT surprise me is that I know myself well enough to know that I often lack the self confidence to truly categorize myself as someone who has truly mastered the art of teaching. I am always inspired by and in awe of the amazing approach many teachers are capable of crafting, and often feel inferior in my ability to match them. The interesting thing about this book is that it is helping me to see that it is OK to not consider oneself an expert as long as I don't let my self-doubt become debilitating; rather, embracing the rookie mindset as a catalyst to always be seeking new methods and means of growth in the profession.

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I scored a 3 which puts me in the comfort zone.  This result does not surprise me, but it does shine a light on what I have been feeling recently; that I need to shake things up a bit and try to find my inner-rookie again.  I have been feeling comfortable in this career and I intend to spark my attitude a bit moving forward.  Because I've recognized where my head is at, I've already begun to take on more challenges recently:  participating in this summer's LVReads program, joining the SBRC team, and taking two of the UCSB courses offered.  I also anticipate taking on the challenge of implementing our new CCC curriculum and organizing that new class library!  I appreciate the suggestions offered:

- Borrow a Job
- Staple Yourself to a Problem
-  Teleport Yourelf

It's definitely time to keep reflecting on ways to jumpstart my mindset and find my inner pioneer

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I scored a 10 in the Danger Zone! Yikes! Instead of looking at this quiz with just my professional lens, I think I may have incorporated my current life challenges in answering the questions. And unfortunately, my life changes are drowning me. Professionally, I can see my struggle because I will be moving to another grade, not by choice, and I am scared. After taking 12 years off to raise my two sons, I have only been back full-time for 2 years and moving to a grade that I have never taught has given me panic attacks. While I know that I will have great support and can learn new tricks (as old as I am), it feels a bit overwhelming at the moment. Hence, my 10 score. Okay, lots for me to work on! Happy Learning!

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I scored a 7, in the middle of the learning zone. I believe this was very accurate, as this is my first year teaching. Being a special ed teacher, there are always new challenges to face every day, and I honestly did not always know what to do. Although I felt comfortable in the classroom, there were still many things that I had not experienced before in my student teaching. In my life, I am a very independent person and don't always like seeking help. However, I did this throughout the school year, which helped me conquer the more challenging days.  In this field, there is always room for learning! That's what makes this profession so great :)

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I scored a 7-learning zone. I believe this to be true of where I am in my career. I feel as if everyday I am learning something new (being as this was my first year teaching) and continually asking my colleagues for advice/guidance/etc. Being a teacher challenges me as everyday something new happens, but I also don't feel overwhelmed 24/7 to the point where I can't finish tasks. There is just enough stress to keep me engaged, but not send me home completely overwhelmed. I'm hoping to stay at this learning stage for quite some time as I have heard it takes years to really feel confident in the field. There have been times where I use an "I don't know" list. I will write a bunch of notes on a post-it note and at the end of the day I will take to another grade level teacher or meet with my team. There is always something I am learning!

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My results say I'm in "The Danger Zone" (add Top Gun reference here). In reality, it states that I'm in the Comfort Zone with a with a score of 5, but I have to disagree. I've been introduced to a multitude of new concepts and practices over the last year through talent development i.e. being mindful, teaching/using empathetic practices, etc. I'm taking this class to learn more, and certainly don't feel Comfortable. Perhaps the book will be able to explain more the different levels and be able to clarify what Comfortable really means.

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I scored an 8 - learning zone.  I think this is pretty accurate, although I have been at my grade level for 3 years, this year I was attempting to implement new practices (mindfulness, a new behavior management system, growth mindset etc.) Also my students were challenging in a variety of ways this year, so I was constantly having switch up my routines and  find new ways to implement the curriculum to meet their needs.  I liked the suggestions of keeping an “I don’t know list” and “dump your assumptions.”  I’m curious to know what it means to be in the “red line zone." Looking forward to reading the book!

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I scored a 6 - Learning Zone. I think this was pretty accurate, however, I thought I would have scored a little higher simply because of the fact that not only is it my first year teaching, but I am teaching English at Sumac, so it is different from what I had experienced in student teaching. I believe that this year has been a huge year of growth for me, as I have learned so many different strategies and implementations to further my student's knowledge. However, I am always wanting to learn different practices and methods of introducing material. I would hope to continue to learn and grow in my practices as students needs are constantly growing and changing.

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I scored a 7- Learning Zone. This does not surprise me, as I am going into my third year of teaching, and have taught different things each year. I would definitely say that my job challenges me to be better than I was the day before, but I wouldn't say that it is unobtainable. I drive my days with the idea that I will have made a difference. Therefore, for me, there is no time for getting into routines. My students this past year were lower achieving, and I was constantly trying out new things. I assume that this next year will be the same since I am switching grade levels. I definitely want to always be in the learning zone, but it wouldn't hurt to be a 6 instead of a 7. Perhaps I would have a more balanced life if I didn't feel like there was so far to go.

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I scored a 7- Learning Zone. This does not surprise me, as I am going into my third year of teaching, and have taught different things each year. I would definitely say that my job challenges me to be better than I was the day before, but I wouldn't say that it is unobtainable. I drive my days with the idea that I will have made a difference. Therefore, for me, there is no time for getting into routines. My students this past year were lower achieving, and I was constantly trying out new things. I assume that this next year will be the same since I am switching grade levels. I definitely want to always be in the learning zone, but it wouldn't hurt to be a 6 instead of a 7. Perhaps I would have a more balanced life if I didn't feel like there was so far to go.

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Kelsey Bartlett

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I scored a 4- Comfort Zone. I have only been teaching for three years but would say the first two years felt like a pretty steep learning curve. I was thankful to have a mentor on campus and a great team that I sought advice from often. Everything I was experiencing was new. From curriculum to school protocol, I was constantly learning. This year I  felt like I settled into a bit of a rhythm. On the one hand, this allowed me to plan and try new thing in the classroom and become more involved in other ways. But on the other hand, like the quiz said, getting into a rhythm can become a routine which can lead to autopilot. That is never my goal. I am looking forward to reading this book so I can see more of what it means to be in a Rookie Mindset.
Kendra Napier

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ROOKIE SMARTS QUIZ

Your Results:

YOU ARE WORKING IN THE LEARNING ZONE

SCORING

You scored a: 7 which puts you in the Learning Zone.

Score of 6-8: Learning Zone: Learning & Performing at Your Best

EXPLANATION

You are learning and performing at your best. Your work is challenging enough to keep you out of your comfort zone, but you are careful to seek out the expertise you need to keep from becoming overwhelmed. Because you are working at the frontier of your capabilities, you feel genuine enthusiasm for your work and have a hunger to succeed.

It is important that you stay on your guard so that you don’t slip back into your comfort zone.

Try either of these practices to continually renew your Rookie Smarts.

Keep an “I don’t know list” – use this list to maintain your curiosity and to continue seeking out the expertise of others.

Dump Your Assumptions – Periodically review your core beliefs regarding your work. Look for evidence to the contrary and be ready to ditch the assumptions that may be obsolete.

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So, I took the quiz but feel like answers can be different depending on what part of my teaching job I'm reflecting on. :)
I enjoy trying new things in the classroom, and like working with the teachers in my school. I do feel frustrated when I try new things but they end up not being used later, like with piloting a new curriculum, etc, but I do enjoy the actual trying of the new thing. It gives a new way of looking at what you are doing in the classroom. I do feel overwhelmed a lot, (especially with grading!) though, and hope to be able to get started in a good groove next year.

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I have to admit that I took the quiz twice.
The first time I took it, I scored a 4- Comfort Zone.
This was really surprising to me, because I just finished my first year teaching, and definitely did not feel like I was in any type of "routine" that would lead me to get bored. If anything, the routine I developed this year was going to lead me to burning myself out.

The second time I took the quiz, I got a 7- Learning Zone.
I feel that this one fits me better! I seek out help whenever I need it, even though I sometimes don't (or don't listen to the advice given).
I am hoping that I keep up with this and keep pushing myself to learn and do new things.
Although I think it is important to learn, I would love to find a little bit of a comfort zone where I'm not working day to day!

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I scored a 3- Comfort Zone.  It almost didn't surprise me in a way.  I've been teaching at my grade level for close to 10 years now (which is scary enough to think about).  Over that time I've become efficient in certain ways.  Having new team members almost every year has meant that I've found ways to be organized and efficient so as to help them in the ways they need.  I'm looking forward to the challenge of a new curriculum this year so that I can move into the rookie state again and refresh my thinking and teaching practices.  At the same time, I'm a little apprehensive about being out of my comfort zone and not feeling that I will do my job as a teacher and a mother to the extent they both need.
-Nicky Hansen

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Almost embarrassed that I scored a 3- comfort zone- on the quiz which said that my job has become routine and I am in danger of burnout .  I guess after 21 years of teaching exclusively the upper grades, I can see how that can happen.  Thrilled that I am moving to second grade next year as this will force me into viewing curriculum and teaching through a new set of eyes.  Guess I wasn't too shocked by the results, but I am ready to make some changes for the "second half" of my career.- might be nice to be a "rookie" again and learn along with people instead of always seeing things through a veteran's perspective.  With the new ELA curriculum, seems like the perfect time to be a newbie again.
Michelle Costantino

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Please share your results and reflections after taking the "Rookie Smarts" Quiz.