Time is a factor in being able to look at children individually to assess where they are, and where you would like them to go academically. Collaboration between teachers is done informally, and more scheduled time is needed. The school system has a very limited program for gifted and talented students. Curriculum and instructional materials are chosen for the entire school system, and we are obligated to use what is supplied to us. This leaves little time for developing additional methods of teaching and assessment.
Teachers have very little voice in choosing the curriculum and materials used.
Teachers feel that we, as a corporation, are trying to cover too much curriculum. We need to collaborate and pick one or two themes from which we will develop activities to add to the required curriculum. Teachers feel that we need to share positive student performance and accomplishments more often. A new or additional way of communicating student progress is needed. Upper elementary teachers need feedback from sixth grade teachers on what skills that Dollens students seem to be lacking.