Many of you have heard the phrase “standards-based grading” and many of you have a general understanding of what that means in our schools. Some schools already have a “standards-based” report card, while other schools are just starting the transition, and still other schools have not yet begun to use clearly identified grade level standards.
In an effort to bring consistency and best instructional practices to all of our schools in RSU 2 fifty-three teachers recently attended an informational conference on the advantages of a standards-based school system. The federal government requires that every state have identified learning standards that schools must use to guide their curriculum development. Research shows that identifying clear standards of academic achievement expected by all students in each subject area is beneficial to student learning.
There are many levels of using standards in teaching, and there are many models of how to use standards. The model that educators in RSU 2 find most effective is one developed by the Re-Inventing Schools Coalition (RISC). The RISC approach to schooling is a standards-based system that educates all students to the highest level and empowers them to own and lead the learning process. In this rapidly changing world, this instructional model helps equip students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed.
A shared vision of education, created by the community is an important component of education in RSU 2. To begin the process of developing a shared vision for our schools Rich DeLorenzo, a co-founder of RISC, gave a presentation, speaking to the strengths and needs of education in today’s 21st century world. The Messalonskee Performing Arts Center in Oakland hosted Mr. DeLorenzo for an informational evening January 25th.
If you are interested in learning more about standards-based education, please check the website at kidsrsu.org or call Christine Chamberlain, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment at 622-6351 x 424.
Submitted by: Susan Corbett
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