One of the ways you can tell how you are doing is through formal and informal evaluations. Formal evaluations can give you an idea of your progress as far as meeting standards determined by your administration. Most likely you'll be evaluated several times during the year, perhaps even monthly. There will probably be a stated list of standards that you'll be measured by and you'll be given opportunities to comment on your performance review and ask questions. This is a great time to get insight into why you're being rated a certain way and to ask for assistance, if you need it, to improve. Don't be afraid to ask for clarification or for help - you have to understand what's expected in order to try to meet it. Along with formal evaluations, you'll also come across opportunities to talk and share with other teachers, both new and experienced. This can be an excellent opportunity to talk about how things are going for you and to get feedback from others. Sharing what works and hearing how other teachers handle their own challenges can serve several purposes. It can help to give you ideas for your own teaching style. It can alleviate fears that you are the only one experiencing something. You might be able to offer your own suggestions to others. This process of sharing and talking can help to bring you into the schoolculture. You will learn about strategies, places to go for help, professional organizations, websites, etc. Remember, when you are new, be cautious in sharing your opinions about problems at the school or engaging in gossip. You never know who is listening or is going to hear what you have to say. This is the same in schools as it is everywhere in the world. Spend more time listening, learning, and asking questions in the beginning. After you get a good feel for your place in the school, you'll know when to speak out and when to hold back.