September 5, 2008

Interesting Research – Washington School Research Center interviewed teachers and administrators at elementary schools in which the percentage of students meeting state standards was significantly above the state average. They found four "primary factors": a caring and collaborative environment, strong leadership, focused, intentional instruction, and the use of assessment data to guide instruction. In addition, the researchers were struck by the high degree of teacher support for reform efforts, despite the shift in teaching practice that was required. Significantly, these patterns were the same for high-poverty and low-poverty schools.

Caring and collaborative environment – I feel that caring for students and each other is our strength. As for collaboration, time built into a schedule does not equal collaboration – but we were working toward a professional learning community prior to this year. Now, with the focus on collaboration to improve student learning, there is no limit to what we can accomplish.

Strong leadership – We have very strong leaders among our staff who lead by example and are not afraid to roll up their sleeves and do the hard work. With the tough road ahead, we will surely need leadership in many areas and I am asking each of you to step in and assist with the tasks we have ahead.

Focused, intentional instruction – Teachers teaching agreed upon essential knowledge and skills that are aligned with our curriculum with the focus always on student learning. Our work through PLC teams will get us closer to this focused, intentional instruction for all students.

Use of assessment data to guide instruction – We do a good job of testing kids and analyzing the data. The next step is a collaborative effort to use ongoing formative assessments to know what the students know and don't know and then understand what to do about it.

General Education Interventions (GEI) – The AEA will be hosting a GEI workshop on Thursday, Sept 11th. Our AEA contact, Brook Lamp, Jeannie and Jessica will be attending the training and brining the information back to us. This is a good time to remind teachers to work with your team to identify appropriate interventions, discuss student concerns and begin documentation on students you may bring to the SAT. If you do not know how to get started, you’re not alone! Work with your team, Brooke, Jeannie, Lorie, Connie and/or Cathy to make sure you’re on the right path. This is not another hoop to jump through – it is good teaching. SAT is not a path to special education or testing – it is another learning team to assist students who are struggling with learning.

Gates & Fluency – should be complete. Make sure to get your information onto the data sheets on the intranet. If you have questions, please see one of your teammates for help. Use one of your Monday PLC days during September to analyze the data as a team.


Humor in the Hallways…
“Is it just me, or do our ‘short’ weeks always seem to feel like our ‘longest’ weeks?”
Heard by me in the hallway this week. J