Innovation Goals & Timelines

Goal #1 -
Building K-12 Career Pathways (computer science(CS); information technology(IT); medical science, engineering)

● RCPS will expand the PLTW program (CS, engineering, biomedical) at all grade levels, maintaining the number of opportunities for student participation in computer science, increasing the engineering and medical science classes by 50% in the next four years. These opportunities:

○ offer students a way to demonstrate learning through student performance and balanced assessment measures;

○ reduce opportunity gaps among groups of students by providing engaging and relevant learning experiences for all students who are identified as

academically low-achieving.

● RCPS will strengthen the the K-12 career pathways by:

○ completing integrated CS/DLI lessons to ensure student experiences at every level (elementary, middle and secondary);

○ Requiring each CTE course to assist students in passing one relevant CTE certification;

○ Increasing the CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) partnership by 50%;

○ Fully implementing an IT5 Dual Enrollment program at New River Community College. The IT5 program outlines a pathway for students to earn an IT degree in five years, beginning with prerequisite courses in the 9th grade Partner business organization 1901 Group will provide mentorship and internship opportunities for IT5 students as they progress through the program;

○ Reaching out to surrounding school districts regarding Career and Technical Education (CTE) and the sharing of resources.

Measurement of this goal:

● The number of PLTW modules, units and courses offered to students will be tracked;

● Enrollment tracking (total enrollment, enrollment of disadvantaged and low-achieving students, and female enrollment) for each pathway/course;

● Pre- and post-surveys and yearly focus group discussions will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of the IT5 Program;

● Tracking of students who earn a CNA Certification, CTE certification, and complete IT5 five year degree;

● Administrator review of lesson plans, vetting of lessons, teacher observations.

Goal #2 -
Exhibitions K-12

RCPS exhibitions will include three innovative ways for students to collect and share artifacts that highlight a progression of their learning successes and experiences.

● Digital Portfolios, PK-2; 3-6; 7-12 (School Career Digital Artifacts) for all students

Digital Portfolios are intended to:

○ create opportunities for students to demonstrate mastery of learning;

○ offer balanced assessments programs that measure both student growth and achievement;

○ increase opportunities for students to curate digital artifacts showing course integration;

○ document student participation each school year and exhibit community service projects, showing students' preparation for college, career, and Citizenship.

● Senior Capstone projects required of all graduating seniors

Capstone project intended to:

○ create an opportunity to reduce achievement and opportunity gaps;

○ increase relevant learning experiences showing a mastery of learning, growth and achievement;

○ increase opportunities to curate artifacts motivating seniors to demonstrate with community members and stakeholders.

● Community Showcase once a year for all students, grades K-11 -

Community Showcase will:

○ allow students to demonstrate their learning, receive feedback and gain confidence from the experience;

○ offer students opportunities to engage in college, career, and citizenship simulations and personalized learning;

○ expose students, at all levels, to peer projects and presentations.

Measurement of this goal:

● Successful creation of digital portfolios for all students, grades K-12 by the Spring of 2025.

● Senior Capstone projects completed and presented to families, school personnel, or the community at large by spring, 2025.

● Exhibitions conducted based on the timeline plan (included on application).