Central Falls Transformation Report - Annenberg Institute for School ...

Areas in Need of Further Improvement
On the survey, CFHS staff members were asked to respond to the following question, “In
what areas does CFHS need further improvement?” Responses indicate that many teachers
and other staff identified student discipline as an area that is in need of further improvement
within CFHS. Comments across respondent groups also suggest that a more systemic
approach to classroom management and student attendance is needed. Staff suggested
implementing buildingwide policies and procedures as a solution that would address these
concerns. Figure 25 displays a sample of these responses from the three most frequently
reported themes. 17
Seven teachers also wrote about a need for further curriculum development and curriculum
alignment across content areas. One teacher reported that additional planning was needed
to “solidify the math curriculum,” in particular. Other suggestions for improvements were
increased parent engagement, designation of exemplar teachers as mentors to peers to
improve performance, and alternative placements for special needs and ESL students.
FIGURE 25
Examples of CFHS Teacher and Staff Perceptions of Further Improvements Needed
Theme Respondent Group Exemplar Quotes
Discipline &
Behavior Management
Communication
Climate & Culture
Teachers “We need discipline policies that address the attendance and tardiness problems that
create the greatest barrier to student achievement.”
“A functional behavior management system that supports the teachers and establishes
norms and expectations with the students that communicate and support
success.”
Other Staff “There was absolutely no discipline toward students especially concerning hats,
phones, iPods, cutting class, acting out in class, coming in tardy. These issues prevent
all students from learning, and we need a policy to enforce consistent rules.”
Teachers “Communication between faculty and administration needs to be strengthened.”
Other Staff “The leadership team does not communicate their vision to the faculty, so no one
understands where we are going, and it makes it difficult to help the students achieve
their goals.”
Teachers “I believe we need to improve the school culture specifically among the faculty. Many
faculty members have a negative attitude toward students and administration and
even their fellow teachers.”
“The consistent turnover in leadership has completely handcuffed the teachers when it
comes to being effective. Teachers need support in every aspect of their jobs, and it
has not been given either by local admin or central office.”
Other Staff “We need teachers to adopt a commitment to high standards.”
NOTE. Other staff may include leadership, guidance, school psychologist, social workers, the school nurse, and the school librarian.
46 Central Falls High School FIRST YEAR TRANSFORMATION REPORT