THE A+ SCHOOLS ACADEMIC PROGRAM

Literacy Focus

The academic focus in every grade will ensure that all students are proficient readers. This will be accomplished through:

	Providing direct reading instruction in print-rich environments with Reading Apprenticeship training, strategies and materials for teaching in the content area
	Extended school day with additional time devoted to problem-solving, cognitive reflection, research, inquiry and explicit reading and writing instruction

Science, Math and Technology Integration

	Strong math, science and technology integration emphasis will provide students skills needed to be successful in Algebra I in the eighth grade and advanced courses in high school
	Daily collaborative planning with extended work day for certified staff
	Science and math focus in extended school year and summer academic academies
	Intensive small-group instruction and technology-assisted instruction for students two grades behind as indicated by performance assessments

Across Curricula Academic Support

	Quarterly diagnostic benchmark assessments and common classroom assessments
	Technology management system to assist teachers in analysis of test data
	Students in grades 5 and 8 will participate in a Transition Academy for orientation to middle and high schools, focusing on promotion and graduation requirements, career readiness, character education and student conduct, study habits and PACT/SAT requirements.
	Students will create a career portfolio in middle school beginning in grade 6.
	Use of modified block scheduling will permit additional instructional time for reading and writing, while preserving teachers’ planning time and other instructional areas such as art, music, physical education and world languages instruction.
	Full implementation of a Comprehensive School Reform Program – High Schools That Work and Making Middle Grades Work

Guaranteed District Support

	Early recruitment and hiring of teachers
	Enhanced teacher recruitment packages
	Funding for extended teacher contracts and extended school day
	Priority for wireless technology installation
	Parent telephone hotline for suggestions and information
	Funding for Student Support Teams and tutoring
	Parent involvement coordinator for each school
	Model classroom in each school
	Partnerships with higher education (colleges and universities)
	Subject and grade-level coaches and specialists
	Professional development for literacy instruction, collaborative planning and technology applications
	Support services for needs assessment and instructional alignment
	Ten additional contract days for teacher training and planning
	Formal school community relations plan and implementation funding
	Mentors for principals and selected teachers