Samtse LSS is committed to providing the best possible learning environment for our students. To this end, our academic enhancement plan includes three practical and effective strategies that were piloted last year with positive results. These strategies are the reading program, quarterly tests, and evening study program. During our parent-teacher meeting, we discussed these plans with parents and received their valuable input. We will be implementing these plans and will review them after two months through a robust interview process involving both parents and students. This collaborative effort between teachers, parents, and students will ensure that we are meeting the needs of our students and providing them with the support they need to excel academically. We appreciate the continued support of parents and look forward to our students' success.
Rationale
The implementation of a reading period twice a week is necessary to improve academic performance among Samtse LSS students. Reading is a foundational skill that is essential for success in all academic areas, and the school has identified a need to improve reading proficiency among its students.
Aims
To improve the reading skills of students from Pre-Primary to Grade 8, as measured by standardised reading tests and classroom assessments.
To increase students' motivation and interest in reading, by providing dedicated time and resources for reading, and by pairing good readers with struggling students.
To enhance students' overall academic performance, by improving their reading comprehension and vocabulary skills, which are foundational to success in other subject areas.
Objectives
Skills
To improve students' reading proficiency by providing them with regular opportunities to practise reading and to receive targeted support and instruction in reading.
Knowledge
To increase students' content knowledge in various subjects by providing them with opportunities to read and comprehend grade-appropriate texts.
Values
To instil a love of reading among students by exposing them to a variety of texts, genres, and authors.
Strategies
Professional development
Provide all teachers with professional development focused on effective reading instruction and strategies for promoting reading by the English and Dzongkha departments in coordination with the literary coordinators of both disciplines.
Regular reading periods
Schedule two reading periods per week (Tuesday and Saturday) for all students in grades 3 to 8 by creating a zero period in the morning. Students will alternate between reading English and Dzongkha.
Monitoring
Assign at least two teachers (or non-teaching staff) to each reading period to monitor and support students' reading development.
Pairing
Class teachers will identify good readers from their class and pair those students with struggling students to provide additional support.
Variety
Expose students to a wide range of texts, genres, and authors to promote a love of reading.
Impact assessment plan
Methodology
Conduct a qualitative assessment by selecting a sample of students from each class and conducting interviews to assess their reading proficiency and attitudes towards reading.
Timeline
Conduct the assessment two months after the implementation of the reading program.
Data analysis
Analyse the qualitative data to identify areas of strength and weakness in the reading program and adjust strategies as necessary.
Reporting
Do a presentation on the findings and recommendations during the academic review meeting.
Outcomes
Improved reading proficiency
Regular reading periods and targeted support can help students improve their reading skills, which can lead to improved academic performance across all subjects.
Increased content knowledge
Exposing students to a variety of texts in different subjects can help them develop their content knowledge and understanding.
Enhanced love of reading
Providing students with a range of reading materials and opportunities to read for pleasure can instil a love of reading that can last a lifetime.
Improved teaching practices
Professional development opportunities can help teachers improve their teaching practices and increase their effectiveness in the classroom.
Greater collaboration
The reading program provides opportunities for teachers to work together and share best practices, which can lead to a more collaborative and supportive school environment.
Better communication
The impact assessment process can provide valuable feedback that can be used to improve communication and collaboration among teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders.
Rationale
Quarterly tests are an essential tool for assessing students' academic progress and identifying areas for improvement. They help teachers to evaluate the effectiveness of their teaching strategies and adjust their approach accordingly. Additionally, regular testing fosters a culture of continuous learning and promotes accountability among students and teachers alike.
Aims
To improve students' academic performance
To foster a culture of continuous learning
To increase accountability among students and teachers
Objectives
To enhance students' critical thinking skills by providing challenging questions and problems on the tests.
To deepen students' knowledge in various subject areas by testing their understanding of key concepts and information.
To instil a sense of responsibility and diligence in their studies by emphasising the importance of regular testing and preparation.
Schedule
Quarterly test 1: 10th-17th April
Quarterly test 2: 11th-19th September
Trial exam: Tentatively in October
Strategy
The department heads will monitor the test questions to ensure an equal distribution of higher and lower-order thinking skills. The test will cover a maximum of 30 marks for the topic or concept being covered. Subject teachers will individually evaluate the tests and conduct item analysis. Within one week of test conclusion, teachers will present their findings in a departmental presentation. The presentation will evaluate whether academic targets have been met or not. Following the presentation, the academic steering committee will schedule an academic review meeting to discuss the findings and develop a plan of action.
Outcomes
Improved academic performance of students due to frequent assessments and targeted feedback from teachers.
Enhanced accountability of teachers and department heads to ensure that academic standards are being met.
Increased communication and collaboration among teachers and department heads in the evaluation and improvement of the curriculum.
Improved student engagement and motivation to learn, as they receive regular feedback on their progress and are held accountable for their academic performance.
Rationale
The evening study program aims to provide additional educational support to students from RBA and RBP colonies who showed poor academic performance compared to other students. The program also ensures equal educational opportunities, and transportation services are available for these students who live together in their colonies.
Objectives
To provide students with additional learning opportunities outside of regular school hours, enabling them to strengthen their knowledge and skills in various subjects.
To improve students' study skills, time management, and self-discipline to enhance their academic performance and prepare them for higher education.
To instil a sense of responsibility, commitment, and perseverance in students, promoting lifelong learning and personal growth.
Strategy
During the Parent-Teacher Conference (PTC), the school will discuss the evening study schedule with parents and gather suggestions and feedback. If parents would like their children to study at home, the school will review monitoring procedures. If parents prefer their children to study at school, volunteer teachers will supervise the evening studies. The proposed duration for the evening study program is 1 hour, three times a week (on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday) from 4PM to 5PM.
Impact Assessment
The school will analyse quarterly test results and interview a sample of students and parents on the impact of the evening study program. Follow-up actions will be taken as necessary.
Outcomes
Improved academic performance
With additional learning opportunities and support, students can improve their academic performance, resulting in better grades and overall performance.
Improved study skills
The evening study program aims to improve students' study skills, time management, and self-discipline, enabling them to perform better in school and prepare for higher education.
Increased confidence
Students who participate in the evening study program may become more confident in their academic abilities, leading to greater success in their academic pursuits.
Positive learning attitudes
The evening study program may instil positive learning attitudes, such as a sense of responsibility, commitment, and perseverance, in students, promoting lifelong learning and personal growth.
Evening Study Program SOP
Purpose
The evening study program aims to provide a structured environment for students to study after school hours. The program is designed to enhance students' learning experience, encourage self-discipline, and develop good study habits.
Scope
The program is mandatory for students in grades 6 and 8 who reside in the vicinity of the school and find it convenient to attend. However, students who live far away from the school are not required to attend the program. The program is scheduled on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Teachers and non-teaching staff will supervise the program.
Procedures
a) Students are required to bring all necessary study materials, such as textbooks, notebooks, and pens/pencils.
b) Students will not be allowed to work on any homework or classwork. The primary focus will be on studying the subjects. However, during the math schedule, students can practice math.
c) Teachers and non-teaching staff will be present to supervise and monitor the students.
d) Students are expected to maintain a quiet and studious atmosphere to facilitate learning.
e) Any disruptive behavior, such as talking or using mobile phones, will not be tolerated.
f) If students have any questions, they may approach the supervising teacher for assistance.
g) The supervising staff is required to take strict attendance of the students and maintain records via the Epicollet5 mobile application.
h) The program will end promptly at 5:00 PM, and students must leave the premises immediately.