Feature Facts: December 2021
Strengthen Your Educational Team
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When principals and school counselors work together, students, parents, and the community benefit. And so do school counselors who experience increased job satisfaction as a result. Some keys to making such partnerships work: regular and reliable communication between principals and school counselors, as well as a shared understanding of clear professional roles, which can include establishing common ground on boundaries.
Blended Learning
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Blended learning offers a way to help meet the challenges posed by the pandemic, including the need for students to take ownership of their learning.
- It combines online learning and face-to-face instruction; classes meet two or three times a week, with students given flexibility in how to use the other days.
- By allowing students more control over their learning, blended learning mirrors the schedules they’ll encounter in college and the workplace.
- For students at one high school, it has led to stronger outcomes, including higher GPAs and ACT scores.
Tell Your Story or Someone Else Will
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One Kansas principal has turned to podcasting to highlight the positive work of school leaders around his state and to share their insights on leadership. Called #ListenUp, the podcast celebrates great schools and their leaders, reminding us of two key ideas:
- Although school leaders can be humble, they have talent and wisdom that other educators want them to share.
- By listening to the stories of peers and learning from their authentic conversations, school leaders create a community and sense of belonging.
Create Your Own Virtual Academy
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Many schools are embracing the world of virtual learning. If you’re starting or expanding virtual options in your district, consider these steps:
- Start by choosing an effective online curriculum.
- Develop a scope and sequence, train staff, and monitor completion rates.
- Communicate with families about the virtual option once you have a clear vision of your program.