MESICK CONSOLIDATED SCHOOLS MAY 18, 2010 Why Walkthroughs?

How does supervision of teaching, learning and people fit in a framework for school improvement? What are the purposes and procedures for using walkthroughs? How do walkthroughs aid alignment?

Well-intentioned and enlightened principals crave to be in the classroom with an eye on learning and time to be a coach, colleague, and encourages for teachers. Building a Culture of Professional Learning Walkthroughs are a way to enhance instructional leadership Focus on getting into the classrooms, teaching practices and student learning Feedback aligned with student learning, school improvement and professional development Why Walkthroughs?

Climate in which reform takes place Reflection on practices implemented Dialogue opportunities Creating trusting relationships

Walkthrough Walking Around Purpose –  teachers are held accountable for implementing the school improvement and professional development plans  Principals can assess the level of teaching and learning Purpose –  Principals are generally visible throughout the school  Principals get to know students  Principals can see the big picture for the school Walkthrough Versus Walking Around Align The Design by Nancy J. Mooney and Ann t. Mausbach

Walkthrough Walking Around Process –  Principals can identify specific look fors and schedule a large block of time to observe classrooms, talk to students, and examine student work to gauge the level of implementation. Process –  Principals briefly step in and out of classrooms, walk around hallways, and capture a quick look at what is happening through the school Walkthrough Versus Walking Around Align The Design by Nancy J. Mooney and Ann T. Mausbach

Walkthrough Walking Around Frequency –  Principals perform walkthroughs usually once per week in all classrooms in the school Duration –  Principals will spend 3-5 minutes in each classroom Frequency –  Principals walk around on a daily basis Duration –  Principals will spend a total of minutes stepping in and out of classrooms and walking the halls Walkthrough Versus Walking Around Align the Design by Nancy J. Mooney and Ann T. Mausbach

Walkthrough Walking Around Feedback –  Principals will provide data, and informal conversation to validate teaching and learning practices that match the look fors Feedback –  No methods for feedback Walkthrough Versus Walking Around Align The Design by Nancy J. Mooney and Ann T. Mausbach

Walkthrough Process Focusing Walking Reflection Feedback Focus – allows the principal to concentrate on specific behaviors that enhance the quality of information gathered and feedback. Validates - good practice examples are gathered once everyone is clear on what it looks like Notice close approximations – provides opportunities for discussion and reflection of practice Encourage reflection – encourages ongoing professional learning by all

Walkthroughs are a strategy for ongoing, continuous improvement through professional discussions and learning….. Mesick Walkthrough Plan and Discussion