School: Version 2.0

Last time we talked, I mentioned to you about the changes that are occurring in our schools as we move forward in this century. Today I would like to discuss some examples of how times are changing and how that translates into the classroom.

Perhaps the most important initiative we have implemented here in Columbus County Schools is to shift our focus off of teachers and teaching and onto students and learning. If we pay close attention to the level of engagement of each child, we are assured of heading in the right direction. The straight rows and dusty chalkboards of the past are giving way to desks in circles and computer screens. If we are to prepare our students for the future, our classrooms must change in structure and substance. We are asking our teachers to make student engagement their top priority by using more hands-on, relevant learning activities. In order to accurately track this level of engagement, each one of our principals conduct frequent “walkthroughs” using a handheld computer. The principal does not focus on what the teacher is doing (the old way) but focuses instead on what the student is doing. This information is uploaded to a central computer where the principal, myself and others can view trends occurring in all classrooms, and make adjustments accordingly. Our central office staff assists the principal by participating in these walkthroughs and offering outside perspectives. The ultimate goal is to raise the level of engagement of each individual student, and thereby raising the overall achievement of each individual student.

Of course measuring engagement itself does not give the entire picture. The students must be assessed individually to determine the level of achievement. This cannot happen just a few times a year. It must be ongoing, and must give the teachers (and parents) the data they need to focus on areas of weaknesses. In grades 3-8, every child is benchmarked at several points throughout the year using web-based testing software. This software provides the information needed to tailor instruction to meet every child’s need. It also gives our parents a specific record of progress and helps guide their efforts in preparing their children for end-of-course tests. We are currently developing benchmarks in grades 9-12; because of the complexity the high school curriculum this will be an ongoing process, but one to which we are fully committed.

I look forward to continued discussions with you as I share the good news coming from our school system. Feel free to comment at drstrickland.blogspot.com, or contact me directly.