We sustain the focus
of professional learning on teaching practices and student learning to increase
literacy through the SMARTER Instructional Cycle. Using SMARTER helps teachers
plan with a purpose, teach, and assess the effectiveness of their instructional
delivery by analyzing student achievement data. The 3 I’s of Coaching will
assist in identifying areas of concern, setting goals, determining strategies
to improve the area, and assessing the new data. The tools used to reflect and
assess instruction keeps the process student and learning centered.
We transform data to
become meaningful to improve instruction by constantly assessing the data by
evaluating mastery and revisiting outcomes in the SMARTER process. During this
process coaches provide input, we self-reflect, have students reflect, and use
the feedback from all involved to make adjustments to improve instruction. This
develops a community of learners that aid in student learning. This allows
students to take ownership of their learning.
The keys to
implement SIM with fidelity are using the SMARTER Instructional Cycle,
collaboration between the coach and teacher, help the whole child (achievement,
behavior, and attitude), use the evaluative tools (videos, checklists,
feedback, etc.), provide a common language and routines, and use the process as
a growth model to get staff and students to perform higher.
What are the first
steps a school should take in order to begin the planning and implementation
process of SIM?
