Recently, we gathered for our teaching and learning annual retreat at Dalton Public Schools, bringing together the Dalton Board of Education and members of system leadership. The primary focus was on providing our leadership team with the opportunity to discuss our current academic data, education improvement plans, and acknowledge the positive advancements in academics and our commitment to continuous improvement.
During the retreat, we extensively reviewed the 2023 College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI) academic data, acknowledging areas where there are opportunities for improvement. We discussed strategies such as quality Tier I instruction, new standards-based report cards and curriculum teams. I am pleased to share that many improvements developed last spring have already been implemented into our schools, yielding positive outcomes across the entire school system already.
The retreat continued to dive into other academic strategies, including lesson planning, student-centered academic coaching and district-wide instructional priorities. We also shed light on Georgia’s latest K-12 mathematics standards, student literacy, the utilization of both the Open Court Phonics and Science of Reading curriculum, and professional learning communities, discussing how these aspects are actively integrated into our school system.
Our adoption of Mastery Connect as the common assessment platform was discussed, highlighting its influence on assessments allowing for tracking student performance and contributing to enhanced understanding. The presentation also covered progress data for English Learners, spotlighting initiatives in co-teaching and newcomer programs, underscoring the significance of educators obtaining English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) certification.
The overview expanded to cover various subjects, attendance, learning opportunities, graduation rates, instructional technology and individual school improvement plans. It not only highlighted current achievements but also provided a forward-looking perspective, projecting the Spanish and German Dual Language Immersion Program, setting Dalton apart in Northwest Georgia.
While we celebrate our current achievements, we acknowledge that there is work to be done. However, with the strategic plans in place, we are well-positioned to continue achieving and striving for excellence moving forward.
Tim Scott is superintendent of Dalton Public Schools.