In regards to the current status of Educational Reform in our State, as well as around the Nation, here are a few thought provoking quotes taken from the book I am currently reading:
(Catching up or Leading the Way)
"We are faced with a choice of what we want (in schools): a diversity of talents, of individuals who are passionate, curious, self-confident, and risk taking; or a nation of excellent test takers, outstanding performers on math and reading tests."
"Researchers suggest that in order to nurture creativity, schools need to set aside physical space for long-term projects and research as well as adopt a generous field trip policy."
So, what is the Armstrong-Ringsted CSD currently doing in regards to creating a nurturing and creative environment for our students?
Via our District's Professional Development Opportunities, Mr. Waldstein, our Curriculum Director recently introduced to the staff to some glimpses of what the Iowa Core Curriculum and their research says about meaningful field trips or at the very least transforming our classrooms into whatever the class is currently studying (immersion).
Do our Teachers really transform their classrooms? You bet!
If you walk into Ms. Redman's Mathematics room you would quickly determine what they are studying. There is an enormous rainbow taking up the entire wall which deals with pennies and mathematical facts. Her classes are having a competition that deals with pennies, and the pennies will eventually be donated to a charity.
Ms. Redman and Mr. Fitzgerald also transform their classrooms and the Middle School Hallway into Pies as they celebrate Pie Day on March, 14th of every year. (3.14). What a sight that is, makes me hungry for Pie just thinking about it...
I also remember back to last year when Mrs. Gappa was studying rain forests with the Elementary students. I walked into her classroom one day and the students were transforming the classroom into an actual rain forest. They were busy cutting out pictures, asking questions of each other, working together as teams, as well as asking the teacher some questions.
These are only a few of the glimpses of what the teachers and students are busy creating and learning in this district.
