Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Education topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
University of Pittsburgh Institute for Learning outlines long-term math, ELA partnership with Chartiers Valley
Summary
At the Jan. 10 meeting the University of Pittsburgh Institute for Learning presented a professional-development partnership focused on high-quality mathematics instruction and ELA support; district leaders said they hope to measure impact and consider continued or expanded funding during budget deliberations.
On Jan. 10, 2017, the Chartiers Valley Board of School Directors heard a presentation from representatives of the University of Pittsburgh Institute for Learning about a multiyear partnership to strengthen mathematics instruction and support English language arts.
Victoria Bill, Allison Escher and Cheryl Sandora of the Institute for Learning described the partnership’s goals as creating “a common vision and language around high quality mathematics instruction,” helping teachers select and use high-level tasks, engaging students in productive discussions and building capacity for curriculum writing. The presenters showed video of students discussing their learning this year.
Dr. Brian White, superintendent, told the board that budget decisions will be difficult and said he hopes the district can “find a way to commit to at least what we’re doing this year and possibly expand the Mathematics at the Intermediate School next year as well.” White said district leaders place high value on the work IFL is doing with curriculum leaders and administrators.
When asked about metrics, White said PSSA results would provide a statewide performance indicator later in the year. Victoria Bill said districts typically stay with IFL for three to eight years; she said some gains appear in year one and increase in subsequent years and that Chartiers Valley’s administrator follow-through is a notable strength of the partnership. Bill noted that IFL also works with West Allegheny, Peters Township and Pittsburgh Public.
Why it matters: the district is weighing whether to sustain or expand the partnership amid upcoming budget deliberations; board members asked about measurable impact and the role of parents and community engagement in the work. The presenters said they do not work directly with parents but that districts often include a parent component.
Next steps: IFL and district staff will continue planning and measuring outcomes; Dr. White said the district will review performance data when it becomes available and consider funding priorities during the budget cycle.
