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The Fund for Transforming Education in Kentucky (The Fund) inspires and scales innovation and excellence in Kentucky’s public schools, resulting in a better future for all of our children. Here on our blog, we share about our work in a more in depth manner. Blog posts are written by staff members, teachers we work with, board members and others.

The Fund believes in unlocking the unique potential of every student by spreading innovative ideas, shining a spotlight on transforming teacher leadership, and driving sustainable change that will increase academic achievement for all students in Kentucky’s public education system.

Thank you for your consideration and visiting our blog. If you share in our vision of an innovative education culture, we welcome the opportunity to partner with you. Please visit our website at www.thefundky.org for more information.

Barbara Bellissimo
CEO

Wednesday, August 5, 2015

Reflections on Common Assignment Study & Thoughts for the Future of Our Work

By: Renee Boss

As we conclude the initial research in our three year research study (Common Assignment Study) we press onward with ideas for impact and expansion. At The Fund, we are asking ourselves a few questions about our related work. We start with WHY? The why driving our purpose and vision rests in our unwavering belief that Every Child Deserves a quality education.


Where have we been?
  • 100 + KY & CO teachers & nearly 10,000 students reached
  • 14 Units of Study implemented, revised and undergoing more enhancements
  • Dozens of hours spent analyzing student work and revising units to meet needs of students

What have we learned?

  • Collaboration is messy but worth it
  • Evaluation of products leads to enhanced quality
  • Teacher leadership for improved instruction works
  • Teachers need support from school and district administrators
  • There’s power in disciplinary content
  • A Common Assignment approach connects well to Kentucky’s Professional Growth and Effectiveness System

Where are we going?
  • Better learning experiences for Kentucky’s students
  • Teacher led professional development
  • Intentional focus on students’ input for learning activities
  • Data (anecdotal and numerical) to make adjustments based on students’ needs

How will we get there?

  • Next Generation Instructional Design Teacher Network 
  • 49 more teachers working in groups led by original Common Assignment Teachers design new common units of study grades K-12
  • New units include 
    • Literacy Design Collaborative modules
    • Performance Based Assessments
    • Project Based Learning (some)
  • Continued analysis of student work 
  • Renewed support from school and district leaders

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