Intentional Learning AND Teaching

Good teaching strategies haven't actually changed much in the past 25 years.  And even though we use technologically-produced data to inform the approach, good teachers are still using individually-administered or hand-graded benchmark assessments and work samples to guide their instruction.  At my visit last week to Rancho San Diego Elementary School, I saw staff using time-tested techniques to specifically target the needs of their students.  

Principal Brown shared that there has been a revived focus not only on teachers communicating and effectively teaching content standards, but also on helping students to communicate the skills they are learning as well.  This model helps our students take ownership of their own learning and celebrate every success along their educational journey.  

Another tried-and-true method utilized at RSD is GLAD. While Guided Language Acquisition Design is not new, the strategies were expertly employed as students were highly engaged in the production of anchor charts to explicitly teach vocabulary selected from the content, including math terminology.  Principal Brown has facilitated the implementation of GLAD strategies from first through fifth grades to boost student achievement as a result of CAASPP data.  

Finally, students were engaged in our core math curriculum, GoMath, through different learning modalities and using paper and pencil to take notes and work out problems as staff led on the docucam.  I even heard one teacher use a jingle along with her class to help them memorize the multiples of three! (and it was not Schoolhouse Rock )  This collaboration of diverse centers of the brain strengthens the learning connections and helps students develop strong pathways to anchor their new-found knowledge.  THIS is a rich learning environment.  

Not limited to dependable and enduring teaching strategies, Principal Brown is equally committed to staff learning as well. Passionate about the power of knowledge for teachers too, she has started a "book club" of sorts that facilitates growth in RSD's teachers' ability to assess the impact of their own learning on their teaching.  What a way to lead with learning and constantly strive for the advancement of all!