Hays Elementary outlines math, CKLA literacy, MTSS and Ron Clark house system at board meeting

Principal Fortuna and Hays Elementary staff presented the school’s three primary goals for 2024–25 to the Lakewood Board of Education on Jan. 6: focused math instruction through professional learning, implementation of the Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) literacy program, and launch of the Ron Clark Academy house system.

“After math professional learning session with instructional leaders last year and an analysis of the historical data, Principal Fortuna decided to focus on math instruction for this school year,” the presentation said. Staff described classroom practices including rich problem solving, use of vertical non‑permanent surfaces and visual math models to deepen mathematical thinking.

On literacy, third‑grade teacher Tara Lautig said K–5 students have been engaged in the CKLA program, “grounded in the science of reading,” and praised its structured approach to phonics, vocabulary and comprehension. School psychologist Joel Knezovich summarized the district’s multi‑tiered system of supports (MTSS) for academics and behavior, explaining the three tiers: universal Tier 1 instruction for all students; Tier 2 small‑group interventions for about “10 to 15%” of students done most days; and Tier 3 intensive instruction for about “5%” of students with weekly progress monitoring.

Hays staff described benchmark assessment practices using DIBELS (Amplify mClass) three times a year and a 40‑minute intervention block (called STARBLOC) where MCAS/mClass provides targeted lessons every 9–10 days based on progress monitoring. An intervention coordinator said the system automatically groups students by need and staff meet in data teams to finalize intervention groups and lessons.

The school also showed its Ron Clark Academy house system, with student ambassadors presenting on the houses — Amistad (friendship), Isabindi (courage), Solivary (upliftment) and River (dreamers) — and demonstrating house ceremonies, house points and assemblies. Principal Fortuna credited the PTO and custodial and technical staff for supporting the rollout and said house points are displayed on hallway TVs refreshed regularly.

Board members asked clarifying questions about how intervention groups change over the year and whether enrichment is provided; staff said intervention groups shift based on benchmark scores and that the STARBLOC time is used for targeted intervention while enrichment is addressed separately.

Student ambassadors and a fourth‑grade “Resilient Ranger” were recognized during the presentation. The board thanked the students and staff and excused them before moving to the business portion of the meeting.