Shawnee Mission School District revolutionizes literacy instruction

This article was created by AI using a video recording of the meeting. It summarizes the key points discussed, but for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Link to Full Meeting

The Shawnee Mission School District (SMSD) Board Meeting held on November 11, 2024, focused on key educational initiatives aimed at enhancing literacy and aligning curriculum with state standards.

The meeting began with a presentation on the district's commitment to structured literacy, emphasizing the importance of effective reading instruction based on the science of reading. It was highlighted that over 450 teachers have been trained in the Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETTERS) program. This training equips educators with the latest information and best practices for teaching reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.

Additionally, SMSD is one of only two districts in Kansas that is training all district and building administrators in the LETTERS for Administrators program. This initiative is designed to help leaders implement school-wide and district-wide strategies related to structured literacy.

The discussion then shifted to the importance of standards alignment in the district's curriculum. It was noted that all instructional materials and curriculum documents are aligned with state standards. The curriculum and instruction department collaborates with curriculum cadres, which include coordinators, teachers, and instructional coaches, to develop curriculum maps that outline learning objectives and student outcomes.

The meeting underscored SMSD's ongoing efforts to improve literacy instruction and ensure that educational practices meet state standards, setting a foundation for future academic success. Further training for teachers and administrators is planned as part of these initiatives.

Converted from SMSD Board Meeting November 11, 2024 meeting on November 11, 2024
Link to Full Meeting