Interactive Learning Initiatives Update

• Emma presented an update on academic priorities, focusing on interactive learning initiatives. 
• The team has been conducting professional development for teachers on implementing student-centered learning activities, with specific emphasis on shifting the focus from teacher-led to student collaborative activities. 
• Emma shared an example of a successful gallery walk activity in a 4th grade classroom demonstrating how interactive learning can benefit students, particularly those with special education needs.
• Emma presented examples of classroom shifts toward more collaborative and interactive learning across different grade levels, including fourth, kindergarten, and first grade. 
• She demonstrated how teachers are moving away from traditional teacher-led activities to ones where students work together, engage in discourse, and co-create content. 
• Emma highlighted the positive outcomes of these shifts, including increased student engagement, improved behavior, enhanced critical thinking skills, and better opportunities for teachers to provide feedback and adjust instruction as needed.

Emma provided a summary of anticipated teacher vacancies for next school year as well as progress on candidates being interviewed for those positions.

School Updates and Upcoming Events

• Emma reported that third-quarter report cards would be sent home early the following week & that ELA MCAS tests had been completed with positive results.
• There is an upcoming merged craft fair and multicultural event scheduled for May 2nd
• Three teachers will be presenting at the Next Chapter Literacy Summit on 4/10.

Next academic excellence meeting is scheduled for May 14th at 10:30.