The goal of this initiative is to ensure student success on the Standards of Learning tests. The increased rigor of the Standards of Learning challenges teachers to revisit their own mastery of the four core content areas and to employ instructional methods that promote the application of content in these areas. All administrators are expected to be actively involved in the initiative to lend momentum to the improvement process and to provide follow-up support to staff members. In addition, the initiative encourages teachers to work collaboratively with other professionals to evaluate their school s progress. At least one resource person in each school, who is knowledgeable about content and effective teaching strategies in each of the four content areas, have been identified.
Most schools have two such persons in each subject for a total of eight resource teachers.
These persons assist the principal and staff in planning and implementing training in their building in identified areas of need. Also, the resource persons help with appropriate follow-up when the teachers questions turn from management issues to student impact. The resource persons are expected to learn through inquiry and will be supported via courses, study groups, seminars, conferences, and a stipend. All teachers and administrators are trained in curriculum mapping and interpreting and using test results. Also, resource teachers in mathematics and English, science, and social sciences have been trained.