In addition to the narrative, include supporting evidence, artifacts and/or research which may include, but is not limited to, the following [there is no recommended length for this section of the capstone:
Survey or anecdotal responses from those affected: Comments sent from a 5th grade teacher: "Prior to the assembly, I had my class divide into small groups and each were assigned a flag to present identifying the meaning of symbols, shapes and colors. During the assembly, they perked up with enthusiasm and confirmation when the presenters shared the same or similar facts that they had learned and identified during their research. It was fun to see them invested."
Multiple measures to illustrate progress towards goal(s). One of major goals was to get the flags placed in visible places throughout the school. Artifact #4 and Artifact #5 We were able to create a IEFA committee with members in different grade levels across our school. We also have a shared folder established where all staff can view and add information. Artifact #6 Photos are attached as evidence of this progress.
Do Questions:
Identify the part(s) of your plan you were able to implement (given the nature of leadership work, your project may actually continue beyond submission of your Capstone Portfolio). We were successful in having the assembly on March 12th, 2025 and subsequently were able to get the flags placed in very visible areas of the school. The first set of flags are placed in the entry to the elementary school. The second set of flags are placed in our main gym. I really like how they are placed next to the American Flag and the Montana flag. Photos attached as evidence. Artifacts #4 and #5 My plan is to continue to work with Florence School next year to continue to build IEFA lessons and experiences. I will also continue to attend IEFA workshops and classes.
How successful was your action plan at addressing the challenge? I believe the action plan was successful due to the placement of the flags and the information shared to all students about the flags. Personally, I was very interested to learn about the history of the flags. Furthermore, I loved having students as the presenters at the assembly. I believe the students in the audience were more engaged because they felt greater ownership. I've attached an example of student work that was assigned by a teacher. Artifact #7
Which stakeholders and association practice or program were impacted? How do you know (site evidence)? I'm attaching a link of a slide show that was created by one of our teachers. I believe this evidence shows our staff was impacted by the power of the assembly as she took the time to create the slideshow to share with her students. Artifact #8
How were your four chosen competencies used in the implementation of your project?
My first chosen competency is Explore and Challenge Inequity from the Diversity, Equity and Cultural Competence. As we listened about the culture of the tribes of Montana, students had the opportunity to learn more about each tribe and the history of the flags. The diversity of the tribes were also presented. I'll always be looking for ways to grow in this area.
My second chosen competency is Facilitating Collaborative Relationships with the Instructional Leadership. One of the most valuable aspects of this project is being able to work with teachers across the variety of grades. As a K-12 school, Florence certainly has challenges when it comes to sharing space and schedules. However one of our biggest assets is being able to work on projects such as this across all grade levels. A feeling of community is also built as teachers work and collaborate together.
My third chosen competency is Communication housed in the Overarching Competencies. I am in the developing level in this area. I have shared the importance of student-centered goals in instruction. I believe that communicating the goals with all stakeholders contributed to the success of this project. I consider myself a good listener and I believe that is the first step in being an effective communicator.
My fourth chosen competency is Interpersonal Effectiveness within the Overarching Competencies. I have created a shared vision based on student needs. I have also developed strong relationships with colleagues based on mutual trust and a shared vision for student learning. Being able to be part of this project and having access to the shared folder is an indication of the interpersonal effectiveness I have with the Florence Carlton School staff members.
What obstacles, if any, did you encounter? How did you address them? The main obstacle was scheduling the assembly. All of the gyms at our school are used for the PE classes. Fortunately our PE department was gracious and let us displace one PE class for the assembly set-up. Sam, our IT guy, was instrumental in getting the microphones and speakers ready. All administrators were on board for this project therefore all teachers and their classes attended. Using my interpersonal communication skills, I think I was able to address these issues by showing the importance of the IEFA flag assembly.
Given the outcomes, describe any changes you might make to the Capstone Project’s action plan. One change I would make to the action plan is to schedule more IEFA assemblies throughout the year. Some ideas for additional assemblies would be a drum presentation with tribal members explaining the importance of drumming and the meaning of the songs. I would also like to have a jingle dance assembly and have the students learn how to make ribbon dresses. Quarterly IEFA assemblies would be additional changes that I would make to my action plan.
Artifacts #4 and #5
Artifact #6
Artifact #7