Program refinements are made during schedule monthly coordination meetings. This program includes self-selected reading, teacher directed instruction, a word block, and daily writing activities. I teachers, primary grade teachers, the counselor, special education teachers, and the principal collaboratively investigated and piloted this program in the first and second grade. Intermediate grade teachers wanted to keep the momentum of achievement going in their classrooms when they noticed the enthusiasm and accomplishments of the first and second graders. Modifications of the program are made at those grade levels including more emphasis in the content areas and the use of technology.
Students are motivated and ask when they are going to read or write.
Parent and community input and involvement is significant in stimulating student achievement. Parents and Horizon Bank personnel volunteer as tutors and wide with field trips. They have supported our endeavors to become a year round school which we feel is also a factor contributing student achievement. The Bank finances cultural events for our students as do other grants the district and school aggressively pursue to support the learning of our students and staff. Niemann's constituents have provided experiences and assistance that greatly enhance our program.