On January 3, 2006, Superintendent George Russell met with the Churchill Region staff to examine current student achievement data for the region. Test scores were examined in various subject, disaggregated to look at the achievement levels of various groups of students (including those from backgrounds of family poverty, as well as ethnic groups). By looking at the data more closely, staff found patterns of students who are not reaching achievement goals, and were then able to begin problem-solving across grade levels and subject areas. Staff members appreciated having the time to discuss issues with each other, and to learn from one another. This will also form the basis for articulated decision making regarding the upcoming textbook adoptions in Language Arts this coming school year.

Superintendent Russell's data revelations provoked a lot of thought and reflection about how we reach and serve a diverse population of students and parents. Following his presentation, staff divided into content areas to discuss questions:		Twin Oaks principal Larry Soberman meets with district counseling related staff to focus on how they might respond to student and parent needs at each school level. What kind of interventions are helpful?
English Language Learner teachers deliberate on the unique needs of this group of students.	Social Studies staff look at the questions posed in relation to their content area.	Here, Language Arts teachers hold a large group discussion on the topics.
District Science teachers (here in one of the new Science wing classrooms at Churchill) review ideas they have raised.	Math staff break into several small groups for their discussion.	Fine Arts teachers discuss the need for district articulation.
Staff involved in Special Education discuss how strategies can be helpful for all students.	World Languages teachers get ready to record their responses to the posed questions.	Technology staff members get the prize for the most pages of notes!
Churchill principal, Dennis Biggerstaff, facilitates the whole group sharing of significant points made in each group, and notes suggestions for next steps.	Staff members listen attentatively as each group reports. One thing became abundantly clear: they value the opportunity to talk regionally across grade levels about shared concerns.	Kennedy principal Laurie Henry collects the pages of question responses from each group. They will be typed, collated and studied, then shared with regional staff. Click here to download a PDF version of their reponses to "Our Region - Our Kids."