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HES principal outlines EL literacy rollout and phonics program in school improvement plan
Summary
HES Principal Dr. Rebecca Katsh-Singer presented goals to roll out a new EL literacy curriculum, develop dynamic curriculum maps, strengthen foundational skills with From Phonics to Reading, expand restorative practices, and evaluate the SOAR program to bolster student belonging and instructional practice.
Dr. Rebecca Katsh-Singer, HES principal, presented her school’s improvement plan to the Harvard School Committee on Oct. 6, focusing on literacy, curriculum mapping, and community-building strategies.
The plan highlights a phased implementation of a new EL literacy curriculum integrated with phonics instruction and the From Phonics to Reading program to strengthen foundational skills. Katsh-Singer described plans for dynamic curriculum maps and classroom observation cycles that let teachers see colleagues’ practice as a route to professional growth.
When asked about the benefits teachers gain from observing peers, Katsh-Singer said the practice cultivates a reflective mindset, improves instructional practice, and builds camaraderie among staff. Committee members complimented the focus on developing internal community and sharing best practices.
She also described efforts to grow students’ and staff’s sense of belonging through restorative practices and plans to evaluate the SOAR program, with an emphasis on strengthening community partnerships and resources.
Why it matters: The initiatives aim to improve early literacy and teacher practice, which can influence long-term student outcomes and help align K–12 curriculum across the district.
