Chapter 3:
Self-Study Findings

Category A - Strengths

• Clear and Aligned Vision/Mission: The school has a well-defined vision and mission that are closely aligned with the district’s goals, regularly revisited, and communicated to all stakeholders, ensuring a coherent purpose that guides learning.

• Strong Stakeholder Engagement: Multiple avenues for parent, student, and staff participation—such as Cafecito, CaféCena, School Site Council, and department/ITL meetings—demonstrate the school’s commitment to collaboration..

• Robust Professional Development and Collaboration: The partnership with New Tech Network, ongoing departmental pullouts, PD proposal processes, and regular committee meetings (e.g., PD/MTSS, 18.4 Committee) illustrate a strong focus on continuous learning, shared leadership, and data-informed instructional improvement.

Category A - Areas of Growth

• Mission Statement Unification: While the school is merging multiple mission statements into one cohesive vision, continuing this process to finalize and clearly articulate a unified mission will help ensure consistent messaging across all programs.

• Teacher Retention and Support: High turnover among newer teachers highlights a need for enhanced mentorship, coaching, and support systems to build capacity, retain qualified staff, and sustain instructional quality.

• Expanded Use of Data for Targeted Interventions: Although departments are increasingly using Early Warning Systems and other data sources, refining processes for consistent, department-specific data analysis and follow-up interventions could further strengthen student support and outcomes.

Category B - Strengths

• Robust Project-Based Learning: The New Tech model emphasizes real-world applications, collaboration, and communication, fostering engagement and skill development.

• Inclusive Model: Students with IEPs and English Learners are integrated into general education with co-teaching support, ensuring equitable access to rigorous standards.

• Strong Community Partnerships: Collaborations with colleges and organizations (e.g., FAST, SVCTE, Spartan East Side Promise) provide mentorship, resources, and career readiness opportunities.

Category B - Areas of Growth

• Expand CTE Participation: Targeted outreach and monitoring are needed to reverse declining SVCTE enrollment and boost awareness of its benefits.

• Support New Staff: Continued training and mentorship ensure cohesive implementation of PBL and integrated curriculum approaches.

• Refine Data Tracking: Improved data collection and evaluation will help assess program impact and guide continuous improvement.

Category C - Strengths

• Equity-Focused Projects: Teachers design authentic projects that promote critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world applications, supporting diverse learners with scaffolding and inclusive strategies.

• Clear Expectations: Detailed rubrics and scaffolds help all students, especially ELs and IEP students, understand standards and take ownership of their growth.

• Tech and Community Integration: Tools like CANVAS and Minga, along with community programs like SVCTE and FAST, enhance learning, engagement, and career readiness.

Category C - Areas of Growth

• Broaden Extracurriculars: Expand programs to engage more students, especially underserved groups.

• Evaluate Tech Impact: Systematically assess digital tools' effects on learning, motivation, and equity.

• Enhance Differentiation: Improve co-teaching, scaffolding, and data use to better support diverse learners.

Category D - Strengths

• Consistent Use of Shared Rubrics: Common rubrics and clear grading policies (e.g., retakes, revisions) set expectations and support a growth mindset.

• Integration of Assessment Tools: Canvas, Infinite Campus, and formative/summative assessments provide timely feedback on learning progress.

• Timely Feedback for Growth: Revisions, retakes, and detailed input help students reflect and improve, supported by feedback in settings like IEP meetings.

Category D - Areas of Growth

• Stakeholder Access to Data: Limited sharing of comprehensive performance data restricts transparency and collective decision-making.

• Expansion of Common Assessments: Standardized tools across all departments could better evaluate achievement and guide instruction.

• Deeper Data Analysis: Improved collaboration and training are needed to enhance data use for targeted improvements and resource allocation.

Category E - Strengths

• Family and Community Engagement: Culturally sensitive strategies like Cafecitos, bilingual support, and cultural events foster inclusivity and pride.

• Supports for Student Well-Being: A strong network of resources ensures personalized academic, emotional, and behavioral support.

• Student Leadership: Initiatives like C.O.M.E.T. Club and the Student Equity Council empower students to shape school culture and advocate for change.

Category E - Areas of Growth

• Evaluate Family/Community Programs: Systematically assess attendance, satisfaction, and outcomes to improve program impact.

• Strengthen Safety Communication: Develop a unified plan to consistently share policies on safety, internet use, and behavior.

• Link Cultural Events to Academics: Connect celebrations to learning objectives to enhance engagement and curriculum relevance.