Develop and support intellectually rigorous and coherent systems of curriculum, instruction, and assessment to promote each student’s academic success and well-being. Effective educational leaders develop and support equitable and intellectually rigorous and coherent systems of curriculum, instruction, and assessment to maximize each student’s growth and learning. Education leaders promote the use of rigorous curricula, which set high expectations for students and are aligned to academic standards. They seek to maximize student learning through authentic and differentiated pedagogy, systems of support, and effective assessment strategies that inform instruction. They develop and coordinate these systems in ways that create opportunities to personalize the academic program to meet individual student needs. The effectiveness of implementation and the impact of these systems on student learning are evaluated. Effective leaders:
Promote the mission, vision, and core values of the school, embody high expectations for student learning, and align curriculum, instruction and assessment with academic standards that are culturally responsive.
Align and focus systems of curriculum, instruction, and assessment within and across grade levels to promote student academic success, love of learning, the identities and habits of learners, and healthy sense of self.
Promote instructional and assessment practice that is consistent with knowledge of learning, learner growth and development, effective pedagogy, and the needs of each student.
Guide the selection and implementation of evidence-based teaching strategies, curricular materials, educational technologies, and other resources appropriate to address diverse student populations.
Ensure instructional practice that is intellectually challenging, authentic to student experiences, aligned to student strengths, and is differentiated and personalized.
Collaboratively model and promote with all stakeholders a culture of high expectations for all students.
Promote the effective use of technology.
Employ valid assessments that are consistent with knowledge of child learning and development and technical standards of measurement.
Monitor and evaluate the use of diagnostic, formative, and summative assessment to provide timely and accurate feedback to students and parents, and to inform instructional practices.
I will support teachers in designing lessons that challenge students to think deeply, solve problems, and take ownership of their learning. Instruction will be student-centered, with opportunities for personalization and creativity. I’ll encourage the use of meaningful assessments that inform instruction and celebrate growth. Together, we’ll build a culture where learning is rigorous, reflective, and relevant.
Attending the APSI for Computer Science Principles enhanced my ability to support rigorous and relevant instruction in a growing STEM field. I gained practical tools and strategies to guide teachers in designing engaging, standards-aligned lessons that support diverse learners. This experience helps me promote innovation while ensuring that instruction remains coherent and equitable across classrooms. As a leader, I now feel more prepared to advocate for computer science opportunities that challenge students and build real-world problem-solving skills.
Project Zero Classroom strengthened my understanding of how to lead instruction that prioritizes critical thinking, creativity, and deep understanding. I apply these principles to support teachers in designing learning experiences that go beyond surface-level content and encourage students to make connections and reflect on their thinking. This aligns with my goal to create a school environment where curiosity and inquiry drive achievement across content areas. As a leader, I promote instructional practices that are both rigorous and learner-centered.
Participating in the Microsoft MakeCode Workshop provided me with hands-on experience using coding tools that make computer science more accessible and engaging for all students. I gained insight into how technology can be used to support differentiated instruction and project-based learning in alignment with high academic standards. This workshop prepared me to guide teachers in integrating computer science into their instruction in meaningful ways. As a leader, I use this knowledge to support instructional innovation that prepares students for success in a digital world.
I have been using resources from Project Zero at Harvard University from the beginning of my teaching career. The thinking routines allow students to experience the content in non-traditional ways of thinking to ensure conceptional understanding rather than just skills mastery.