Below is information that ran in previous editions of the Instructional Leaders Update, or was sent to administrators via e-mail.
January 2011 edition
Education Systems Review pilot showing success at Schenectady CSD
The
Education Systems Review is a self study tool for school district
staff to dig deep into how they work together to accomplish key
goals and objectives. Accountability for implementing Race to the
Top will include assessment of whether or not planned changes are
feasible. This will require work at the “systems” level in planning
and implementing the new requirements. As this work is performed,
success is more likely if the plans reflect how major activities fit
together at the district and building levels, identify road blocks
and address the root causes of those dilemmas.
Schenectady City Schools' building leadership teams have piloted the ESR this year and the consensus is positive. The teams looked at leadership in the building, infrastructure, data use, school climate & culture, professional development and teaching/learning categories, then developed action plans for meaningful change.
Patricia Doyle, Principal of Zoller Elementary School had this to say about the process:
“Each year schools have to develop a Comprehensive Educational Plan that reflects school improvement goals and initiatives. Previously schools had little if any guidance and support throughout the process. This year the SCSD partnered with the Capital Region BOCES and provided consultants to work directly with school based improvement teams. The consultant assisted the team with facilitated development of the plan, the analysis of relevant data, keeping the team to a time line and overall organization. This support has been a wonderful and much needed addition to the team as we work through this systematic approach in creating, implementing and analyzing our improvement plan. It has made the process much more meaningful and enjoyable!”
The Building Leadership Team at VanCorlaer stated:
“We reflected on our own building and the whole building gave input. It wasn’t a directive and we owned the plan."
Principal Barbara Coffey at Woodlawn states:
“It is very hard for a team to get to the
core of the issue. In the past we have rarely met as a team. This
didn’t occur the first day but the second brought much more openness
and we got to discussion that was really needed. We are making
steady steps forward."
Schenectady staff members will share their experiences with this
process, particularly as it relates to the development and support
of School Inquiry Teams, at the next meeting of the Race to the Top
Network Team (Feb. 1). The Network Team will explore options for
each district to initiate an Educational Systems Review in
preparation of the formation of their Inquiry Teams.
December 10, 2010
RttT is challenging us as leaders to move our staff and
schools through a significant change process. The focus is
on curriculum, assessment and other familiar educational
arenas. It is important to keep in mind all of the critical
elements that ensure system, staff and student effectiveness
and success. Taking a look at these key areas, such as
school climate and culture, must not be forgotten.
Download a brochure about the Capital Region BOCES
Educational Systems Review process that several area schools
are currently engaged in (PDF)
