Smaller Learning Communities Expand!
As we enter a new school year, Smaller Learning Communities continue to grow in order to accomodate the increasing needs of our students. This year, the program will be co-chaired by curriculum resource teacher, Cindy Walter and Sharon Smith. Mrs Walter will continue to develop the programs for 9th and 10th graders, while Ms. Smith will focus on the internship programs and development of interest academies.
9th & 10th Grade Programs-- Cindy Walter |
11th & 12th Grade Programs--Sharon Smith |
|---|---|
Freshman Seminar |
Community Internships--career related experience for 12th grade students. Tutorial Interns--(HSA subject focus) SUCCESS Program--Salisbury University education majors observe & help in classrooms (HSA areas) Interest Academies--a work in progress. This year's initiative is to develop the Arts & Media Academy. |
The Philosopy of
Smaller Learning Communities
I. A school structure involving
academies of interest
Technology and Engineering Academy |
|---|
II. A group of strategies that promote
a more personalized learning
environment which
will lead to academic
and
post-secondary success
for all students.
III. A plan to implement more rigor
across
the curriculum
WHAT WE ARE DOING NOW:
The Ninth Grade Academy includes paced Algebra I and English programs; Freshman Seahawk Day; Ninth grade seminar classes; Technology Application classes; and Senior Tutorial interns working with students in English, Algebra, Government and Spanish
WHAT WE HOPE TO IMPLEMENT:
A 10th Grade Academy: to mentor
and tutor students; to prepare students for High School Assessment in English and Biology; to take introductory courses in areas of interest
SLC: Tutorial Interns Working for Success in School
By Cindy Walter, SLC Facilitator
The Student tutorial program is designed to meet a Smaller Learning Community goal of helping students be successful in class. Seniors and juniors who participate in this program have an
opportunity to mentor students and assist teachers in classes. I have placed students in all high school assessed areas as well as Art, Spanish, ChemCom, Music, Technology, Theatre Production, Chemistry, and Physical Education.
There are many benefits to this program; the most obvious one is that students are helping to motivate others to learn the material. I have found that interns are gaining new insights into a teacher's job as well as the confidence to speak in front of their peers. The rigorous expectations for the class will help them in their post-secondary work; many have researched educational articles and have developed reward systems that could be used in a class. Overall, while the ninth and tenth grade students are reaping the rewards of individualized attention, the interns' rewards are far beyond the classroom experience.