Peer matching of strengths and weaknesses facilitates balancing of groups for cooperative learning activities. The overall view of the Skills Analyses and Formative Assessments should drive the curriculum. Transitional Program Sixth grade students are targeted for transitional services. Through increased time in Language Arts and Math classes, students will spend more time in academic learning environments. Sixth graders are assessed in reading three times a year using the Scholastic Reading Inventory.
Some students receive intervention services to help improve their comprehension skills.
All sixth graders are invited to participate in structured after school reading and math programs. Social Studies and Science teachers are emphasizing literacy skills within their curricula. For the next five years, the staff of the Gavin will be supported by the staff of UMass Boston and the coaches of Cohort Four in implementing the 6 essentials of school improvement. During the summer of 2000, two thirds of the Gavin teachers participated in a Gavin Summer Institute at UMass for literacy training and connected math training. The Gavin has been in the process of reform for many years.