Assessment and Data Use to Improve Schools

A wise friend of mine once taught me that you get what you “expect” and “inspect.” I have found this to be true in parenting and education. Expectations are clearly the single most influential factor in the success of any system, classroom, or life. Steven R. Covey said, “Treat a man as he is an he will remain as he is. Treat a man as he can and should be and he will become as he can and should be.” Inspecting progress towards expectation outcomes is equally as important. If one fails to “inspect” what one “expects” there will surely be disappointment.

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Read more … Superintendent's Scoop March 2015

Thank a Teacher!

There is no doubt that teachers have an amazing influence in each of our lives. I’ve mentioned many times and in many settings that I can name every one of my teachers from Kindergarten to Twelfth Grade and I also remember with fondness many of my favorite college professors. Each teacher had a unique influence on my life and I remember lessons learned as far back as Kindergarten and Preschool.

I had a unique opportunity two weeks ago to stop in and visit with my fifth grade teacher Mr. D., who had a profound influence on my life. It was a great experience to sit and chat with him and to personally thank him for his influence. He clearly took an interest in me as an 11 year old and looked for opportunities to teach me to believe in myself and to always do my best. He sparked my interest in reading and took extra time to help get good books into my hands that he knew I would enjoy reading. He also took a writing assignment I had completed and submitted it to a magazine, then gave me a copy of my published work. Imagine my surprise and joy to find my published article in a nationally syndicated magazine.

I could mention dozens of other experiences that I’ve had where Mr. D. took the time to show me he cared about me and went the extra mile to help me learn. I feel the same way about all of my teachers.

Please take the time to drop in on previous teachers who have influenced your life. Find them on Facebook, send them an email, give them a call, or stop by and say thanks. I’m sure you’ll be glad you did.

Please join with me in welcoming our new teachers to Sevier schools this year. Be sure to click on the “New Teachers” link on the district home page.

Also, take a moment to view the district “Bond Projects Timeline” on the district home page. It is exciting to see the progress of our projects and get a feel for when they will be completed.