Baldwin Intermediate School is implementing a comprehensive strategy to enhance academic performance across key subjects, including English, mathematics, and science, as outlined in a recent school board meeting. Principal Jackson presented a detailed plan for the 2024-2025 school year, emphasizing professional development, targeted interventions, and innovative instructional practices.

A significant focus for the upcoming school year is the professional development of staff, with all teachers trained in Lexia, a program centered on the science of reading for grades K-8. This initiative aligns with the Virginia Literacy Act and the school's core literacy program, Benchmark Advance. The introduction of a team teaching model aims to leverage the strengths of staff to improve instructional outcomes.

To address achievement gaps in English, Baldwin will implement high-dosage tutoring for ESL students and after-school boot camps for those needing additional support. The school has also expanded its transportation services to facilitate student participation in these programs. In mathematics, the school is shifting its approach to student placement, ensuring proper identification for regular and advanced courses, with a goal of increasing the number of students performing at the pre-algebra level by sixth grade.

Chronic absenteeism has seen a notable decrease of 10% from the previous year, with ongoing efforts to further reduce this figure. The school is proactively identifying students at risk of chronic absenteeism and implementing recognition programs to incentivize attendance.

In science, Baldwin Intermediate is restructuring its curriculum to spiral unmastered fourth-grade standards into fifth-grade instruction, enhancing the cumulative nature of the SOL assessments. The school has doubled its science instructional time to allow for deeper engagement with the curriculum, utilizing project-based inquiry learning to reinforce previously learned standards.

The school board members expressed their support for these initiatives, commending the focus on mastery of content and community involvement. Principal Jackson emphasized the commitment to meeting the diverse needs of students, ensuring that all have access to quality education regardless of their backgrounds. The school looks forward to continuing its partnership with the community to foster academic success.