For the school year 2015/2016, the Georgia Elementary School opted to pilot a new program and utilize their personnel differently to maximize the learning potential for all kindergarten students.
Creating larger student class sizes, revamping teacher roles and responsibilities, collaborating with student outcomes in mind, and working exclusively as a functioning team for ALL students, the Kindergarten team has created an environment that is successful for every student.
One teacher, assigned as a “push- in” literacy and math specialist, co-teaches with every classroom teacher throughout each day.
This environment creates larger class sizes, but creates a successful small-group approach that allows for greater differentiation.
The team has learned that the quality of first instruction and follow up has been beneficial for everyone.
When students need additional support they then can have small group interventions that serve as a “double dip” at a later time.
Classroom assistants receive professional development and work exclusively with the team to plan and implement best practice methodologies and teaching strategies.
Students enjoy working with a variety of adults and are making great academic and social gains!
Target 3 – Flexible Learning Environments. FWSU will maximize flexible learning environments by redefining the school day, promoting learning experiences that extend beyond the school classroom, and fostering creativity, innovation, and differentiated learning opportunities for all.
Action Step –Provide students with access to content, resources, and methods for learning beyond the school day and beyond the school walls.
The FWSU Story 
This aligns with the opportunities that exist to best support all students who may be struggling, we have to move forward to focus on how we can maximize our instructional practices for our learners.
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