Implications for Practice

This experience provided great insight into elementary level education for Durham Public Schools. This includes the implications for leadership in understanding what rigor at the elementary level looks like within the context of the developmental age. The second is the use of different data at the elementary level. The third is the emphasis on mental health support and community partnership to drive a successful school.

Through this experience, we have learned the importance of understanding the developmental stages of elementary school students. This can be a great asset when preparing to implement resources for students to be successful in their classes and preparing them for their educational experience.

Looking forward as we enter into administrative roles, it is essential that we recognizing the various components that go into schools. Knowing the community resources available, communicating them to families, and providing students with the necessary levels of support is a crucial component of effectively running a school. This experience also served as a reminder to look at the school day holistically and to not forget the experience we are creating for our students. Education should be an experience and working with all stakeholders to make it a positive one is one of the most important things we can do as school leaders.