Insights from Educators on Improving Student Learning
February Agents of Change - Bruce Randolph School
This month’s Agents of Change video features educators discussing their collaborative efforts to enhance student learning, especially focusing on long-term English learners (ELs). Caitlyn Osugi, the math Senior Team lead, emphasizes the importance of honesty and openness in meetings, which fosters a supportive learning environment. The team has been working on identifying what constitutes a successful student response, specifically focusing on writing and speaking skills. Cheri Wright, the LCL and dean of instruction, highlights how understanding the criteria for a "four" on the writing rubric has helped them set clearer goals for student performance. The educators acknowledge the necessity of quantifying their observations to better assist students in progressing from lower to higher performance levels.
As the team reflects on their practices, they recognize that the responsibility for student success extends beyond the ELD team to all educators. They share insights on the importance of integrating language skills with content instruction, which can enhance students' comprehension and expression. The conversation also addresses the need for data-driven strategies to understand student challenges and promote better communication among teachers and students. Overall, the educators express a commitment to continuous improvement and collaboration, noting that the diverse perspectives within their group significantly enrich their teaching practices and ultimately benefit all students.