T O W N R E P O R T 2007 L U N E N B U R G - Town of Lunenburg

This year, grade level teams are developing common UBD assessments and grade/subject assessments in all content areas.Through ongoing analysis of student results, refinement of units and increased awareness of effective assessments andinstructional practices, student performance will improve. The UBD units provide additional measures in non-MCAS subjects andprovide additional curriculum materials for new teachers.Ongoing and sustained professional development continues in a range of areas. Graduate level courses were offered in NewTeacher Induction, Word Study, Curriculum Implementation and Junior Great Books.Instructional technology courses have been provided to help meet the needs of a range of learners and expand instructionalstrategies using technology. The Instructional Teaming course supports teachers in establishing inclusionary practices.Our new teacher induction program provides ongoing support for new teachers to the district. New teachers participate in a twodayorientation, regular meetings during the school year and professional development for new teachers. This year with thirty-fiveteachers with three or less years of experiences, the district has established mentor teams to support and guide beginningteachers. Formal graduate level classes provide additional time to learn best practices and establish reflective teaching practices.GEMS- Academic, Social and Emotional LearningIn the second year of implementation of the district-wide GEMs curriculum, the focus is on school-wide implementation. Thevision of GEMs is ensuring all students grow to their potential, develop empathy towards others, value the importance of selfdisciplineand become contributing members of the community. This year, all schools are working to establish school-wideroutines and structures that support academic, social and emotional learning for ALL children.SUMMARYThe Instructional Services Office has a strong partnership with the individual schools, the administrative team, faculty andcommunity. The combined and integrated efforts of all parties ensure continued focus on improving student performance andstrive to provide teachers, administrators, students and the community with the necessary data, educational research,professional development, support and resources needed to improve student performance.For additional information on any of these topics, please contact Karen Martin, Instructional Services Director, at 978-582-4118 ore-mail kmartin@lunenburgonline.com or see the Instructional Services Website under administrative departments at the districtschool website.