Inspired

I read an amazing article today about a school in New Mexico that went from the bottom to the top. Within 3 years, they raised proficiency in math from 15% to 78%, and reading from 28% to 71%. Like my school, this campus has over 80% English learners, and many are living in poverty. Despite these barriers, the principal and teachers made a major impact on these students. Of course, I was most interested in HOW!? Evidently, the principal was extremely data driven, and used this information to drive instruction. The data was shared with students on a weekly basis, and high performing students were recognized in morning announcements. The entire school made it their goal to make adequate yearly progress. They created a solid learning environment based on high expectations and a school culture focused on achievement. This is an outstanding example that English learners CAN achieve at a high level! We can no longer afford to make excuses for why our students are not performing. Rather, we must change how we teach, motivate, and use data in the classroom. In some ways, I feel this article reaffirmed some of the steps we have already taken at my school. We are beginning to move....I am inspired and look forward to gaining momentum!