Implementation and Description
To support teachers in the instructional process and provide them with the appropriate tools to be successful in the classroom, we have put in place the following:
Curriculum Aligned in Scope and Sequence
The curriculum in all core areas is fully aligned with the Virginia Standards of Learning. All teachers participate in activities designed to strengthen the alignment of curriculum, instruction and assessment. This includes revision of the pacing K - 12 to reflect new standards and resources and workshops for all non-core teachers on unwrapping the standards.
Benchmark Assessments
Benchmark assessments are developed in English, math, science and social science/history in grade 3 – End of Course subjects and are administered each six weeks to measure student learning on the content standards for that instructional period. The results are analyzed by teachers and administrators and discussed in collaborative Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) meetings at the grade, school and division level.
Peer Learning Visit
In Prince Edward County Public Schools, Peer Learning Visits provide a framework for collaboration within the professional learning community of teachers. The PLV is protocol for looking at student work in the classroom environment. Teachers at each school observe their colleagues' classrooms in teams which are focused on gathering information. Evidence is analyzed by the teachers for patterns across the schools. Each team develops specific actions based on the evidence in a continuous process of school improvement.
Analysis of Data
Prince Edward County Public Schools uses a wealth of data to inform decisions and plan for the future. Student achievement, discipline and attendance data provide the backdrop for constructive, collective decisions regarding prevention and intervention systems. Administrators and teachers analyze and discuss data in rich conversations focused on results.
Targeted Professional Development
In Prince Edward Schools, professional development supports the instructional focus of the division and the individual schools. Professional development across the division targets implementing the new content standards, creating a positive school environment and utilizing high-yield instructional strategies.
Alignment of Resources
Especially in difficult economic time, all resources, including time, people and money, must be aligned to support the instructional focus. As a school division, we allocate resources to support and improve student achievement.
System of Prevention and Intervention
Increasing the achievement of all students means using a toolkit of effective strategies and differentiating instruction for students who need extra support or challenge. Therefore, administrators and teachers use the data from six-weeks benchmark and other assessments to identify the needs of students and plan strategies to provide continuous support. Each school develops a plan for providing intervention and enrichment during the school day or after school.
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