We will be stressing mathematics as a cross-curricular focus in our school. This will be a priority in all of our grades, but in particular 8th grade.
After receiving an allotment of money through the No Child Left Behind grant, I feel that the money could be best utilized in the following manner:
Title I
We must hire an additional 8th grade math teacher who is highly qualified with a 6-12 grade certification in Mathematics. This will reduce class size. A lower student-teacher ratio has been found to be effective in improving standardized test scores. I realize that that this will use up most of the funds under Title I, but I strongly believe that this additional staffing is essential.
Title II
Since most of my staff is highly qualified, we need to address professional development as a means of achieving improved student learning. Therefore, workshops will be established to aid teachers to specialize in their subject areas with a strong focus on building math skills. These PD programs will include teaching with manipulatives, keeping the students engaged, and how to implement a cross-curricular program.
Along with in-district workshops, the funding will be utilized to account for teacher release time to attend out of district workshops that are content specific. The funding will allow for substitutes to cover classes. I will also allow for teachers to observe neighboring districts with successful programs to see what works for them in dealing with similar type students.
Title III
We will use this money to purchase computers for our bilingual program that will be used for all students. By increasing the number of computers, we give our students the opportunity to improve skills that are essential for their educational background in the 21st century. Additional money from Title III will be spent on software for these computers with an emphasis on building math skills.
Title IV
This money with be utilized to improve school morale and to build self esteem in our students. Our counselors will provide team building skills for our students by instituting programs such as Peer Leadership, as well as Peer Mediation training so that our students have a safe nurturing environment in which to learn in. This positive environment hopefully will create an atmosphere where all students can thrive.
Title V
This money will be allocated to provide a stipend for teachers for an after school program for the students who have shown to be not proficient on previous standardized tests. This program will emphasize the areas in need of improvement based on the data acquired from previous tests. These will be small groups and the instruction will be a lead up to the NJ ASK 8.
In conclusion, please consider these proposals as a means of improving not only Jeter School's test scores, but its overall academic performance.
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ReplyDeleteHi Larry,
ReplyDeleteI like the direction you are going with your suggestions. One thing pops out to me, however, that may be an issue for you going forward. If you hire a new teacher out of NCLB title funds what happens to that teaching position next year if your funding calculation changes. The state this year, i have been told by the powers that be, advised districts not to hire new personnel out of Title funds or Bailout monies.
I really like your overall direction however, it is so important to keep learning focused on the students, as you seem to do with your proposals.
All the best,
Jay
Conceptually, you have some good ideas, but the "devil is in the details". For example, hriing a teacher for $45K might cover salary, but not benefits. What happens when the grant dries up? I like that you considered substitutes and manipulative training. For the Title II computers, a computer is only as good as teachers (and kids) are trained to use it. Again, good conceptual ideas, but the state is lookinf for measurable outcomes.
ReplyDelete