School Growth Plan
At Winchelsea Elementary we
are committed to quality educational programs which focus on key areas of
student learning and development. In our School Growth Plan we have
analyzed student performance data, referenced student, parent and staff
survey information, as well as classroom, district and provincial
assessments. Our goals have been developed within the context of recognizing
ongoing successful school initiatives, supporting these where appropriate
and in places changing our plan this year to concentrate on a manageable and
measurable focus in areas where student performance requires improvement.
We continue with the goal
of improving students’ skills in numeracy, but this year with a
concentration specifically in the area of problem solving. This has resulted
in a modification of our objectives and instructional strategies. This
change reflects our staff’s response to classroom and provincial assessment
data which indicate that continued improvements in student performance in
this core learning area is needed. We believe that problem solving, our area
of focus, increases a student’s understanding of the practical application
of mathematics as it relates to their world. Also, problem solving is an
important skill required for successful living, and an area where students
will need a strong foundation for later success as they move into middle and
secondary education.
Our second goal deals with
social responsibility. We believe we must create and maintain a learning
environment which facilitates student achievement by addressing school
safety issues necessary for optimal learning. A school with a safe, orderly
and productive learning environment is a place where academic performance
across all curricular areas is enhanced. Children who do not feel safe and
cared for will be less able to achieve at their optimum level. The
teaching of WES CARES has been, and continues to be, an integral part of our
school program. Including this comprehensive social responsibility
initiative as part of our School Growth Plan, acknowledges the work that we
do in this area. We believe the objectives incorporated under the WES CARES
program is making a positive difference in our school climate, increasing
the achievement of all students, and building the confidence of our parent
community.
Process:
Our School Growth Plan is the result of an examination of multiple data
sources. Staff and parents have reviewed, analyzed and interpreted data from
grade 4 Foundation Skills Assessments, classroom report cards and school and
ministry Satisfaction Surveys completed by parents, students and staff.
Over the last several years we have built staff comfort and expertise with
using Performance Standards and our own “made in Winchelsea” assessments to
evaluate student achievement. In a cumulative way we have purchased
resources to support the goals identified. We have also looked at the
structure of our day and made adjustments in the timetable to support
student learning. This information has been discussed by our School
Planning Council and parent representatives who have relayed this
information to PAC. Parents have been invited, and have participated in our
May School Planning Day. Our goals are conveyed to the parents through
newsletters as appropriate. |
