We are excited to welcome our colleagues to Woodland Middle School. Woodland has achieved Adequate Yearly Progress for the last four years and we are expecting our new colleagues to continue enhancing the achievement of our students. Prior to achieving AYP, Woodland was on the need improvement list for four straight years and was trying not to be restructured by the state. We implement research based best practices of Differentiated Instruction, Learning Focus School, Authentic Assessment, Balance Assessment, and Backward Design and implement Professional Learning Communities. In addition, we disaggregated scores, performed and analyzed benchmark and checkmark tests and reflected on our teaching practices during team, subject area, grade level and professional development meetings. We developed and implemented a clear and precise strategic plan of action that delivered success. Presently, we interview and select teachers who understand their content and can convey the content through solid pedagogy. We also expect our teachers to plan and prepare, provide management, excellent instruction and promote professional responsibility. The task of teaching and learning at Woodland is critical for we need to develop a student population that has the knowledge and skill to think critically, creatively and independently. In addition, we want a student population that can work collaboratively to solve problems that will enhance the community. Lastly, we want a student population that can share and connect their ideas to a larger audience using technology. We want our students to clearly understand that they are a part of a global society and they can communicate and share their ideas using the Internet. However, prior to the planning process, it is vital that we understand our students and adjust the teaching and learning process to meet the needs of our students. We are asking that each teacher describe the type of learners and behaviors you expect to teach and observe at Woodland Middle School. The length of your writing is based upon you. After posting your writing, please read and respond to at least two of the entries.
