2016 Winter Five Star Journal

Academic Growth
Another contribution to success is the
implementation of new curriculum and resources
for the benefit of teachers and students.
New reading and writing resources
for teachers, a new training resource for
first-year teachers, and improved curriculum
aligned to the Colorado Academic Standards
have all played a role in student achievement
growth.
In addition, improving principal leadership
training helps sustain the growth from
feedback and observation. Utilizing a national
training program, principals learn how to
maximize effectiveness while building capacity
and leadership opportunities for teachers.
However, just because schools moved out
of the “priority improvement” rating using
a customized improvement plan, does not
mean the work concludes. Schools will continue
to partner with the district to find ways
to improve educator effectiveness and student
achievement. To replicate success seen
in priority improvement schools this year,
additional principals from across the district
will receiving training in the proven growth
tactics.
While the district recently celebrated the
success of struggling schools demonstrating
improvement, school leaders emphasize the
work has just begun.
“We are not settled with this success; we
are just getting started,” Dorland said. •
“I am most proud of
how we worked
together as district
and school leaders
to develop a plan
for success that put
educators as the
decision makers.
I could not be more
excited to continue
on this path of success
for the sake of our
students and look
forward to many more
celebrations to come.”
- Tracy Dorland
Chief Academic Officer
Five Star Journal | page 17