Common Core State Standards

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 2:37am

An opportunity for districts to make some very high leverage changes in how they support the improvement of teaching and learning

Purpose

Pivot Learning is ready to help districts prepare for the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) through a multi-faceted leadership and system-building approach.

Approach

Pivot Learning’s unique approach to the CCSS transition uses job-embedded professional development to go beyond training to implementation. Educators establish a shared vision for 21^st century teaching and learning and create the structures and processes to achieve that vision with the guidance and support of highly skilled and experienced Pivot Coaches. Our tiered approach allows districts to build a solid foundation for implementation and select the pathway or “Door to the Core” that best meets each district’s unique needs and context.

Level Zero: Readiness Inventory

Help school districts understand their own context and identify a promising strategy for the district to begin work on CCSS.

Level One: Awareness

Establish a vision for 21^st Century Teaching and Learning, build enthusiasm for the transition and create a shared understanding of key shifts.

Level Two: Needs Assessment and Implementation Plan

Develop a core strategy, theory of action, tactics, milestones and differentiated messages related to a multi-year reform effort to implement the CCSS.

Level Three: Infrastructure and Technology

Build a cadre site administrators and teacher leaders who can lead implementation at the site level, and address technological barriers to CCSS Implementation (Data SWAT).

Level Four: Doors to the Core

Pivot Learning’s unique “Three Doors to the Core” approach allows districts to choose the focus - Curriculum, Instruction, or 21st Century Skills, that is the best match for their specific needs. Each door leads to the same destination: a new vision of 21st Century Teaching and Learning. In each door we work shoulder to shoulder with teacher leaders and site administrators.

21^st Century Instruction

Identify high leverage instructional strategies necessary for CCSS and begin implementing them.

21^st Century Curricular Units

Create CCSS-aligned curriculum units that are accessible to all students, including English Learners, promote 21^st Century skills and incorporate a the higher order thinking skills called for by the CCSS.

21^st Century Skills

Identify how instruction, curriculum and the overall classroom/school environment need to change in order for all students to graduate high school ready for success in college and a career.