2012-2013 Professional Development Updates
Our professional development focus is centered around the implementation of the new frameworks. Massachusetts was one of 45 states to adopt the National Common Core.
This year, grades K-6 are developing curriculum maps for English Language Arts and Mathematics. Grades 7-12 are developing pacing guides. Staff is provided time to work on this during some early release days and some extended faculty meeting days. In addition, grades K-6 have release time to work on the maps for Mathematics. Substitutes are provided and funded through a grant.
Teachers are looking forward to developing unit plans with their colleagues. Teachers are working collaboratively and sharing ideas that will have positive results that will benefit our students.
In addition to the above curriculumwork, we are in our 2nd year of implementing the Lucy Calkins Writing program in grades K-5. Our Literacy Coach provides professional development and coaching for this. Principals also participate in professional development in this program to ensure fidelity. The Lucy Calkins program provides the opportunity for students to write at the ambitious levels of the new frameworks. It crafts instruction to accomplish this.
Grades K-6 are also piloting a math program called Go Math. One teacher per grade level is participating in this pilot. Professional development is provided for those teachers that are participating.
Through the Title IIA grant, teachers and administrators are also able to participate in workshops and conferences that connect to their goals.