Biggest learning moments/inquiries for today (I am learning TONS including reflecting on our own systems of education):
Without standardized testing/expectations teachers appear to put more energy and time towards preparing more wholistic, clear grading practices and project based learning. FREEDOM!
There is a steady system in place for funding schools– it is not tied to performance, attendance, nor taxes.
Admin and staff that do not work directly with students provide so much structure and resources so that the schools themselves have the energy, time and ability to focus on daily issues/interventions needed to best support students. The Principal is not left solving problems that the district should already help step in and solve.
In place of a standardized test schools use performance tasks as a wholistic assessment.
For students who don't have an IEP but need extra supports they create a student success profile
There are principals that support the school outside of the building. We Zoomed with a principal in charge of newcomer students and their families- ensuring they get plugged in and all the right resources.
There is a Co-Op teacher that helps organize internships for the students with local businesses- I asked what do low income students do when they need to actually need to make money... didn't seem to be an issue for this school...
Observed lots of project based, hands on learning