PowerPoint on the Race to the Top Proposal

1. NCVA Unified School District RACE TO THE TOP

2. Introduction Charge from the Superintendent Component of Race to Top application Problems needing immediate attention Need for resources to address School reform efforts

3. “Because we know that about 12% of America’s schools produce 50% of America’s dropouts, we’re going to focus on helping states and school districts turn around their 5,000 lowest-performing schools in the next five years.” President Barack Obama.

4. System to be Reformed

5. Current Pressures Struggle for state accreditation during the improvement process Struggle to meet AYP benchmarks Lack of high quality professional development Need for increased parental and community involvement Need to increase student engagement and improve learning

6. Transformation model

7. Transformation Team Act as Leadership and Instructional Coaches Engage Parents and Community Communicate urgency of need for rapid improvement

8. Transformation Team Establish a positive organizational culture Monitor Implementation of best practices Professional Development Ensure Accountability

9. Reform Impact Due to the nature of the current shortage of highly qualified teachers in key areas, the model will provide for using the existing staff and provide differentiated professional development that will assist all staff to increase their capacity

10. Research Hope Foundation (2010) Education Week (Maxwell, 2010) The USDOE Blueprint for Reform (2010)

11. Pros & Cons Cons Coaching takes time to see results Restructuring the school day will present challenges to some families Additional funds needed to support transportation, recognitions, and extended time Pros Involves all stakeholders Job-embedded to ensure sustainability Promotes continuous use of student data to improve teaching and learning Builds capacity of existing staff Built in early warning system through use of RTI Establishes positive climate through a culture of collaboration

12. Policies and Regulations Hours of Employment/Work Day 8VAC20-440-20. Contractual period defined. Evaluation: Licensed Personnel § 22.1-309. Notice to teacher of recommendation of dismissal or placing on probation

13. Let’s Have a Great Year!