The school sends 14 students to a central class for English as a Second Language, and 17 percent of the students receive free or reduced-priced lunches. Since 1984, College Place Middle School staff members have engaged in and benefitted from a great deal of professional development activity. Beginning with an assessment of their school's current situation and needs, as called for by the OTE process, College Place staff developed a plan of action based on effective schooling research. Another key event occurred in 1987, when College Place principal, Dr. Ann Foley, attended an Outcomes-Driven Developmental Model program designed by the Johnson City Central School District in New York. Success in learning promotes further success.
Educators control the conditions for success in learning.
In 1989, College Place staff applied for and were awarded a 21st Century School grant through a program operated by the office of the Washington Superintendent of Public Instruction. These plans, together with the provision of some additional training, have provided the basis for changes within the school. The cornerstone of this effort is the staff's focus on productive ways of using time. It has driven our planning since 1986, when we first became involved with the program. To attain their goals, they began the process of restructuring their use of time.