Action Research Plan Update - January 2012

We are halfway through the school year now with Falcon Time.  Some grade levels have hit a roadblock.  At times, these grade levels question the reason for Falcon Time.  Other grade levels understand and utilize Falcon Time effectively.

To address those grade levels that are struggling, we will be using our staff development day in February as a time to address RTI and Falcon Time.  Hopefully, this will be just the motivation that teachers need to see the value in the Falcon Time schedule.

Action Research Plan Update - December

Not much too report.  Falcon Time is still moving along in all grade levels.  We've reached the half-way point through the year.

Action Research Plan Update - November

I actually heard a kindergarten teacher say that she really likes Falcon Time!  This is quite a remarkable thing considering that kindergarten was the most resistant grade level at the start of the year.

At this time of the year, I believe some grade levels have a better understanding of Falcon Time than others. Kindergarten, second grade, and fourth grade are utilizing the time wisely.  They understand the purpose is to meet all students' needs.  The other grade levels are still requiring more guidance from me as the instructional coach.  But, I believe that all grade levels will get there eventually!

Action Research Plan Update - September/October

Falcon Time is in full swing on our elementary campus, as well as the other two elementary campuses.  My second through fifth grade teachers had an easier adjustment with Falcon Time than the primary teachers.  I believe this is because they are used to grouping students by objectives for reteaching.  The kindergarten and first grade teachers have needed more guidance with the Falcon Time implementation.  I've had to help them with data disaggregation and sorting students into groups based on data needs.

An overall issue that has had to be addressed is what to do with higher achieving students during Falcon Time.  The teachers know how to plan for those that need remediation.  They have had a harder time planning extension activities.  This has been a great learning opportunity for my teachers, as we've talked about utilizing Falcon Time as a means to boost the scores of our commended students.

Action Research Plan Update - August

School has started!  Week one is finished.  All three elementary campuses will begin Falcon Time next Monday.  Since school has just begun and we don't have data on our students, we will begin Falcon Time slowly.  This week, teachers will use Falcon Time as a time to get acquainted with the students.  Students will practice moving from classroom to classroom, getting to know each of the teachers in their grade level.  Teachers will use Falcon Time this week as a time for a literacy lesson.

Action Research Plan Update - July

No new news to post.  The new master schedule will be implemented in August.

Action Research Plan Update - June

The new master schedule has gone to the school board for approval.  It's official - all three elementary schools will be using the new master schedule with a built in reteaching time!