It is always an honor to work with teachers and this year will be no different. Concept English has visited our regions and is finishing up our orientations for the 2017/2018 school year, today, at our new building in Michigan!
As we shared, Concept English is committed to becoming a thought partner with each of our 6-12th grade English teachers so we can continue to adapt and strengthen our curriculum. We encourage the use of the Gradual Release model which is strong on modeling because when students see what is expected they are more able to master the concepts and standards.
This year our focus is on building instructional capacity in all our teachers. We know from research that how we lay out our Units and Lesson Plans is essential: planning and managing transitions allows us to create necessary instructional connections and higher achievement.
New this year:
Focus standards/weekly models
Observations of core content classroom teaching
Monthly updates via the Concept English website
Coaching bi-monthly at Belmont, Southwest Chicago, McKinley Park, and Milwaukee (and as requested via SIS)
Best Practice Videos of Concept Curriculum
Parent Writing Program
Book Mark Challenge
For Your Support:
Orientation/Workshop Presentations
If you are new and/or were not able to attend our session you may find our three workshop presentations at http://english.conceptschools.org/archives/
Literacy Programs/Calendar
In addition, we handed out a flyer with the 2017/2018 Literacy Programs and a schedule/calendar of some national programs as well. You may find these at http://english.conceptschools.org/events/. As our programs take shape, information will be available under the Events & Programs drop down menu. This years writing competition is # It’s A Matter of Words. We were just asked to manage the Concept Spelling BEE as well – information will be available in the next few weeks.
PD/Observations/Webinars
Also, as part of our instructional focus, we are available for Webinars and School Visits via SIS. We encourage you to reach out with a phone call or email and we can work together to schedule these tools. Last year we were extremely successful using this means of communication (as referenced on the year in review slide). Go to PD offerings in your SIS account (items in bold are available Fall 2017) to register or call the Director of English Education for assistance.
Finally, if you are interested in following us for monthly updates, please simply fill out the form on the right hand side of the page:
We know that you are going to have a great year. If you are new, welcome, and if you are returning, we are glad you are committed to another year. Thank you in advance for all you do for our students.
