2011 VSBA Showcases for Success

Index of Participating Schools

 Albemarle County Public Schools  Henry County Public Schools  Alexandria City Public Schools  Hopewell City Public Schools  Appomattox County Public Schools  King William County Public Schools  Arlington County Public Schools  Loudoun County Public Schools  Bedford County Public Schools  Louisa County Public Schools  Buckingham County Public Schools  Lynchburg City Public Schools  Caroline County Public Schools  Manassas Park City Schools  Charlottesville City Public Schools  Mathews County Public Schools  Chesapeake City Public Schools  Middlesex County Public Schools  Chesterfield County Public Schools  Montgomery County Public Schools  Colonial Beach Town Public Schools  Nelson County Public Schools  Colonial Heights City Public Schools  Newport News City Public Schools  Covington City Public Schools  Nottoway County Public Schools  Culpeper County Public Schools  Page County Public Schools  Cumberland County Public Schools  Patrick County Public Schools  Danville City Public Schools  Petersburg City Public Schools  Fairfax County Public Schools  Portsmouth City Public Schools  Falls Church City Public Schools  Prince George County Public Schools  Fauquier County Public Schools  Prince William County Public Schools  Floyd County Public Schools  Richmond City Public Schools  Fluvanna County Public Schools  Roanoke City Public Schools  Franklin City Public Schools  Roanoke County Public Schools  Franklin County Public Schools  Scott County Public Schools  Fredericksburg City Public Schools  Shenandoah County Public Schools  Galax City Public Schools  Southampton County Public Schools  Giles County Public Schools  Suffolk City Public Schools  Gloucester County Public Schools  Virginia Beach City Public Schools  Grayson County Public Schools  Westmoreland County Public Schools  Hampton City Public Schools  Williamsburg James City Co. Public Schools  Harrisonburg City Public Schools  Winchester City Public Schools  Henrico County Public Schools

Paul H. Cale Elementary Student Engineers Albemarle County Public Schools

The curriculum comes alive for student engineers at Paul H. Cale Elementary School through hands on engineering projects! Engineering projects, which include concepts and skills from across the curriculum, engage students in real life problem solving. Children collaborate and share responsibilities as they learn to work in teams to research, design, build and test solutions to meet the criteria to create such things as a racecar, a structure that is a model for a maze, playground equipment or a house strong enough to with- stand the huff and puff of the Big Bad Wolf. Students are challenged to apply what they are learning as they tackle these authentic problems through trial and error. This approach to learning provides the basis for a deeper understanding of the concepts and skills being taught. Cale students are challenged to meet the criteria for engineering projects throughout the year. Each spring the Cale Engineering Fair is held to showcase and share this hands on approach to student learning. The University of Virginia School of Engineering and the Curry School of Technology and Teacher Educa- tion, partner with Cale to enrich and support our engineering focus.

Superintendent: Dr. Pam Moran Contact: Bonnie J. Podraza, Gifted Resource Teacher, 434-293-7455 ext. 25308

Monticello Library Media Center Albemarle County Public Schools

The Monticello Library Media Center is beginning its transformation into a true 21st century “Learning Commons” that gives students and teachers a space to collaborate and create technology–rich projects for both classroom and independent projects. Our Media Production Lab provides a hands-on learning environment where students explore, learn, and create projects using digital media in collaboration with their peers. Students, who may previously have felt at odds with a traditional school environment, are demonstrating an excitement for learning and a high level of engagement that extends not only into their entire school day, but into their home environments as well. The Media Lab is bridging connections across different social groups of students, a key component in the establishment of a bully-free school. Additionally, this program provides students with a responsible outlet for self-expression and renewal. The MHS Media Lab is helping students become productive digital citizens who problem solve, collaborate, and responsibly communicate with others through video, music, and various mediums of participatory based learning. Visit our website at: http://mhsmedialab.com/

Superintendent: Dr. Pam Moran Contacts: Dave Glover, Instructional Media Specialist, 434-244-3105 Joan Ackroyd, Librarian, 434-244-3105

Samuel W. Tucker Elementary School: 5K Family Fun Run Alexandria City Public Schools

The Tucker Runners on Track (TROT) program provides third through fifth graders the opportunity to develop and practice good healthy living habits. TROT’s mission is to provide learning experiences and positive outlets to give students the necessary tools for a healthy and active life. This running and fitness program aims to improve cardiovascular endurance, self esteem and self-confidence. Students not only complete a 5K race after 9 weeks of training, but the program also welcomes family and community members. This year’s evening classes are available for families and kids to discover nutrition tips, family fitness ideas and goal setting techniques. This family and team approach supports the school division's goal of increasing family involvement with school initiatives. This community involvement promotes good citizens and students by promoting self determination, perseverance, cooperation and motivation. Students then transfer these skills to all aspects of life; school, home and leadership roles in the community.

Superintendent: Dr. Morton Sherman

4 James K. Polk Elementary School is a Green Laboratory Alexandria City Public Schools

In September 2011, James K. Polk Elementary began being heated and cooled by using just the earth and sky! Greenovation at Polk includes installation of a renewable energy heating and cooling system – on- site geothermal wells, state-of-the-art fresh air intake Eco-Air System, photovoltaic panels, solar panels (solar hot water array to warm water), 100% grid wind power ,a vegetative roof, sand filters to filter water, and a Greenovation Learning Lab! This Green project merges technologies to create the first hybrid system of its kind in North America utilizing a combination of solar and ground source geothermal renewable energy to significantly lower heating and cooling costs while a solar thermal energy system and photo voltaic equipment will dramatically decrease the utilization of fossil fuels and green house gas emissions. It also provides for cleaner air quality and lighting systems for the students and transforms Polk into a state-of-the-art working Green Laboratory School. Superintendent: Dr. Morton Sherman Contact: David Conrath, 703-461-4168 or [email protected].

Cora Kelly School for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Alexandria City Public Schools

Through funding from a Department of Transportation grant, this year Cora Kelly School for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math offers 100 students from kindergarten through fifth grade, a science, technology, engineering, and math hands-on academic enrichment experience that promotes critical and creative thinking; innovative problem-solving; cooperative learning; and decision-making skills. Two days each week for approximately one hour, participating students are led in activities that cover the following units of STEM study: Aeronautics and Rocketry, Trains and Boats, Green Streets, and Robotics. Some of the activities students have and/or will engage in before the end of the year include designing and building a bridge; constructing a robot; building a simple steam engine; and designing and constructing different types of kites to determine which kites fly the best. While participating in the science, technology, engineering, and math based activities, students maintain a journal that is used to document their learning, communicate questions related to their STEM discover- ies, and draw pictures and diagrams to help with understanding STEM related concepts. Students are also led in reading and discussing literature about each unit of STEM Plus study. Family field trips are an integral part of the program that support students in deepening their understanding of STEM related skills and competen- cies.

Superintendent: Dr. Morton Sherman Contacts: Suzette Adams, Program Manager, [email protected] Mark Walker, STEM Plus Curriculum Developer, [email protected] Judith Haskins, STEM Plus Activity Leader, [email protected]

Appomattox Alternative Education Center (AAEC) Appomattox County Public Schools

With great excitement, Appomattox County Public Schools opened the new Appomattox Alternative Education Center (AAEC) on August 23, 2010. With minimal renovation to an existing, underused building and no new positions added, we designed a program based on the basic belief that all students deserve an opportunity to meet their educational and career goals. This program is designed to provide that opportunity for students struggling to realize those goals in the regular school setting. The unique components of the program include use of the ISAEP program to assist high school students in getting GED credentials and career plans in place. AAEC also offers a credit recovery program for over-aged and under-credited middle schoolers to redirect their learning paths back on track with same age peers. In six months, five students have already completed their GED.

Superintendent: Dr. Dorinda Grasty Contact: Annette Bennett, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, 434-352-8251

5 Systematic Remediation and Support Appomattox County Public Schools

Appomattox Middle School focuses on deep commitment to the success of each student. Teacher teams have an on-going process of examining each at- risk student based on behavior, attendance, and /or academics. Teams meet weekly during common planning meetings to discuss varied instructional and academic issues. The teams identify and analyze the at-risk students and identify classroom and team strategies to assist each student. The administration and guidance team review the team lists monthly to provide continued support. Three support programs that give additional support are: academic extension, literacy enrichment, and math plus. By working with students in structured remediation with continual monitoring and contact with parents, students receive timely intervention. As a result, AMS has raised SOL achievement scores in 4 of the 5 areas and strives to continue to exceed the standards.

Superintendent: Dr. Dorinda Grasty Contact: Martha Eagle, Appomattox Middle School Principal, 434-352-8257

Agricultural Education Program Appomattox County Public Schools The agricultural education program at Appomattox County High School uses hands on, applicable, and academically integrated instruction. The program includes courses in agricultural production/ management, agricultural mechanics, horticulture and nursery landscaping, and veterinary science. Students learn in realistic and engaging environments by actually managing an operating farm and greenhouse, designing landscapes for the school, and restoring, rebuilding, and maintaining school system tractors and equipment. In addition to the program’s commitment to agricultural education, there is a strong focus on leadership, personal growth, and career success. Almost one-third of all students in the school are actively involved in at least one agricultural class. The school’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter is thriving, has won several state and national accolades and hosts an extremely active alumni organization.

Superintendent: Dr. Dorinda Grasty Contact: Ed McCann, Jr., Agricultural Instructor, 434-352-7146

Latinas Leading Tomorrow (LLT) Arlington County Public Schools

LLT is a mentoring and leadership development after-school program that focuses on self-esteem and cultural identity as a basis for academic achievement and completion of high school. One of the primary challenges that Latinas face in school today is the absence of female role models; that absence affects their self-esteem. In addition, many Latinas are influenced by family and societal expectations, often based on stereotypes of Latinas as submissive underachievers and caretakers. When these stereotypes are internalized, they may cause Latinas to doubt their chances for academic and career success and hurt their self-esteem, which can get in the way of their engagement in school and high school completion. Latina students say they often find that they are subject to stereotypes and lower expectations, which in turn limit the range of “possible selves” that girls can envision becoming because they may internalize these lower expectations. Latinas Leading Tomorrow meets on a weekly basis and challenges these stereotypes by providing a consistent chapter leader who builds strong relationships with each girl and their parents in addition to facilitating workshops and exposing the girls to diverse learning experiences. Girls elect their own student government officers and are encouraged to choose the topics for discussion. Community Service, academic advising, career exposure and leadership skills classes are offered with the goal of motivating and exciting the students. Professional Latinas with wide-ranging occupations are invited to meetings to share their experiences with the students. Consequently this empowers the girls to envision themselves within these careers.

Superintendent: Dr. Patrick Murphy Contact: Madeline LaSalle, Minority Achievement Coordinator/HILT Counselor 703-228-6935

6 Emerging Scholars Cohort Arlington County Public Schools

The Emerging Scholars Cohort is a daily elective for 7th grade minority students. The focus of the class is to prepare participants for the expectations and rigor of a college preparatory curriculum, supporting the development of critical thinking and organizational/time management skills necessary for success in high school, college, and beyond. Students are recommended to participate in this program based on strong academic ability, passing scores on the SOLs, and their capability to excel in a college preparatory curriculum, including enrollment in Advanced Placement and/or International Baccalaureate classes, in high school. Students enroll in Foreign Language and maintain academic excellence in all classes in 7th grade. Emerging Scholars Cohort students will understand:  What it means to be a scholar and how to consistently place into practice the tenets of scholarship  The importance of academic achievement and higher education  Cultural identities and evaluate their impact on surrounding communities In their eighth grade year, cohort students continue to meet regularly to reinforce and maintain the Emerging Scholars support system. Cohort members participate in enrichment activities, such as college visits, cultural events, and service projects.

Superintendent: Dr. Patrick Murphy Contacts: Renée Harber, Assistant Principal, 703-228-5504 Monica Lozano, Minority Achievement Coordinator, 703-228-5512 Chris Taylor, 8th grade Cohort Contact, 703-228-5500

Network 21 Arlington County Public Schools

Network 21 is a student-run TV studio, dynamic student-centered classroom, and enterprising multimedia production facility. Network 21 is a creative centerpiece for Gunston Middle School, where students take immense pride in showcasing their talents, diversity, and academic achievements. Network 21 is the place where 21st century skills and higher-level thinking make real-life connections with our students. This exemplary project is responsive education and academic achievement in action. Network 21 offers media journalism classes to students and classroom technology integration opportunities to core teachers. In addition, Network 21 helps to create technology related staff development workshops, produces content for Arlington Educational Television, and runs a week long summer enrichment experience in multimedia production. Network 21 strives to help students work cooperatively, think criti- cally, communicate effectively, and solve problems creatively. Network 21 is also committed to producing responsible digital citizens through promoting concepts in media and information literacy throughout the curriculum. Network 21 website: http://www.apsva.us/156320861599930/ Gunston TV Blog: http://www.gunstontv.blogspot.com/

Superintendent: Dr. Patrick Murphy Contact: Harry Costner [email protected] or 703-228-6900

7 Division Wide Implementation of Thinking Maps © Bedford County Public Schools

In the “high stakes testing” era of education, critical thinking has often taken a back seat to testing strategies. Bedford County Public Schools challenges students not only with academic content, but the way the content is presented and what they are asked to do with that information. To prepare students for the 21st century, BCPS has begun implementing Thinking Maps © across the division. The eight maps are modeled after specific thinking processes and can be used with any subject and with any type of learner of any age. Thinking Maps© create a common visual language for transferring thinking processes, integrating learning, and continuously assessing progress. This isn’t just something else to teach. It’s a way for teachers to hook students into the content and have them apply it to their life.

Superintendent: Dr. Douglas Schuch Contact: Dr. Mac Duis, Director of Instruction 540-586-1045, ext. 246

Division Partnership with YMCA and Physical Education Program Bedford County Public Schools

In 2008 Bedford County Public School and the Bedford YMCA collaborated to address childhood obesity and the lack of physical activity among students. The Carol M. White PEP Grant awards $750,000 for three years to enhance the BCPS physical education program. At the secondary level, students visit the YMCA facility two days a week and are provided access to all the Y equipment, including the weight room, swimming pool, gymnasium, and activity room filled with treadmills, elliptical machines, and spin bikes. The YMCA staff assists physical education teachers at least one day a week at each middle school and two days a week at each high school. In the middle school, the instructors lead activities such as hop sports, zumba©, and yoga. Offering similar activities at the high school, they also require students to track their activity levels and encourage them to participate in a more healthy lifestyle. The YMCA staff visit each elementary school at least twice a semester introducing activities such as games, zumba©, and yoga.

Superintendent: Dr. Douglas Schuch Contact: Dr. Mac Duis, Director of Instruction 540-586-1045, ext. 246

Division Implementation of Laying the Foundation Training Bedford County Public Schools

In an effort to ensure that high expectations, rigor, and collaboration become the norm for all students; Bedford County Public Schools has implemented the Laying the Foundations Program for all 6-11 grade English and math students. Research tells us that students from all points on the learning spectrum learn from hands-on activities, peer modeling, collaborative projects, and direct instruction. Students who have the ability or work habits to tackle pre-AP or AP material are guided into those classes. The LTF program requires sophisticated responses from students, rigorous course assignments, and global connections that reach far beyond the boundaries of what is done in the textbooks. Bedford County has provided the LTF Training for middle and high school teachers in each of these specific content areas. Implementation and continued training is ongoing.

Superintendent: Dr. Douglas Schuch Contact: Dr. Mac Duis, Director of Instruction 540-586-1045, ext. 246

8 4-H After School Program Buckingham County Public Schools

This year Dillwyn Primary School has partnered with the 4-H Educational Center in Appomattox, VA to provide an exciting incentive program for students! Approximately forty students in second and third grade attend our 4-H after school program on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. An instructor from the center comes to DPS to provide hands on science activities and opportunities for team building. Participants include our most AT RISK students and a few high achievers, chosen for their potential to serve as role models. These forty “4-H ers” make goals with their teachers and parents at the beginning of each nine week grading period specific to their needs. At the end of the grading period, students meeting their goal earn a trip to the 4-H center – to participate in hands on Science experiences! Parents are invited to attend and students are rewarded with more learning experiences outside of the school environment.

Superintendent: Dr. Gary Blair Contact: Pennie W. Allen, Principal 434-983-2861

Buckingham County Public Schools Provide Smartphones for Teachers and Students Buckingham County Public Schools

With the support of Dr. Gary Blair, a Mobile Interactive Learning Initiative using cell phones provided by the district has been in place since the summer of 2009. As we prepare our students for college and career excellence, it is important that we make connections using authentic 21st century tools in the classroom. Buckingham County Public Schools has supported this need by acquiring and configuring Blackberry Smartphones and turning them into mobile learning opportunities for students. Since the inception of the initiative the smartphones have been incorporated into many different teaching and learning opportunities from 1st through 12th grades. From classroom use by high school business students to podcasts created by 1st grade students after using the smartphones on a field trip to the zoo, smartphones are becoming ever more integral to learning throughout the district.

Superintendent: Dr. Gary Blair Contact: John Sylvester, Assistant Superintendent for Administrative Services 434-969-6100

9 “We Motivate Young People to Be Better Citizens” Caroline County Public Schools

The Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) is a program that is offered at the high school level and teaches cadets the value of citizenship, leadership, service to the community, personal responsibility, and a sense of accomplishment, while instilling in them self-esteem, teamwork and discipline. The mission statement reflects the overall meaning and purpose of JROTC, which is “To Motivate Young People to be Better Citizens” by preparing high school students for responsible leadership roles while making them aware of their rights, responsibilities, and privileges as American citizens. The program promotes graduation from high school by providing curriculum, leadership education and training, and rewarding opportunities that will benefit the cadet, community, and nation in the present and future. Army JROTC is a cadet centered program that uses a variety of instructional techniques to cause learning. It starts with a state-of-the-art curriculum and hardware provided by U.S. Army Cadet Command. In training, cadets are exposed to ice-breaker exercises, interactive media, educational games, the Classroom Performance System, thinking maps, community service opportunities, field trips, summer leadership camps, group exercises, and informal/formal social activities. Additionally, cadets are issued uniforms and function within a formal chain-of-command. As a member of the corps-of-cadets, students develop their followership and leadership techniques. They also hone the skills of self-discipline, responsibility, and teamwork. Cadets can earn ribbons and medals for outstanding performance in the areas of academics, leadership, military skills, athletics, and community service.

Superintendent: Dr. Gregory N. Killough Contacts: LTC (R) Bob Pyner, Senior Army Instructor 804-633-6013 Dr. Harper Donahoe, Principal 804-633-9886

A Sensational Celebration of Agricultural Education at Caroline Middle School Caroline County Public Schools

The Caroline Middle School (CMS) agricultural education program is the starting point for students to explore industries and occupations associated with food, fiber and natural resources. The CMS agricultural education program is important to the total agricultural education profession because it is often the initial point of contact for students who have an interest in the agricultural industry. Here at CMS, as the agricultural instructor and FFA advisor, it is our mission to provide a safe, orderly, stimulating learning environment, which will encourage each student to reach his/her fullest potential as a life-long learner. We are committed to developing responsible and caring citizens who understand the importance of contributing to their community, their state, their nation, and to a global society. Agricultural education integrates academics into the career and technical education curriculum, and provides students with hands-on activities and real world experiences to apply the knowledge that they learn in the classroom.

Superintendent: Dr. Gregory N. Killough Contacts: LaVeta Nutter, Agriculture Teacher and FFA Advisor 804-633-6561 Derrick Scarborough, Principal 804-633-6561

10 iPods Replace Card Catalogs of the Past Charlottesville City Public Schools

Most of the students in our schools today have never had to use a physical card catalog. Instead, card catalogs have been replaced by the online public access catalog (OPAC). Students at Burnley-Moran Ele- mentary School are using iPod Touches to access the OPAC system. In the past, a student would have to go to a desktop computer, take a note on paper, go to the stacks, and try to find the book. If the students were unsuccessful, they would have to go back to that computer and either hope their search was still open or begin again. Now, students can borrow an iPod Touch and access the entire catalog freely as the walk through the library. They not only use the OPAC system wirelessly, but also have access to authors’ websites as they research and discover new books to read.

Superintendent: Dr. Rosa Atkins Contact: Eric Stauffer, Information Technology Resource Teacher 434-245-2400

CPR Training Charlottesville City Public Schools

Charlottesville City Schools partners with several community agencies to provide education for our students to facilitate our division’s mission of producing students that will become productive citizens in a global society. Our newest partner is the American Red Cross who will help our students learn to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) as a strategy for saving lives. The American Red Cross provided training for seven employees from Charlottesville City Schools to become instructors of CPR for seventh and ninth grade students. Generous donations allowed the local American Red Cross to purchase start-up training equipment to provide CPR training at Buford Middle School and Charlottesville High School. Local funding was used to rent the equipment, purchase materials, and pay the instructors for the hours needed to instruct the students. Two hundred three students at Buford and 219 students at Charlottesville High School have received CPR training. The program training partner, American Red Cross, will be able to use this local model to help schools across Virginia deliver life-saving skills to students.

Superintendent: Dr. Rosa Atkins Contact: Diane Behrens, Instructional Coordinator 434-245-2674

A Partnership between Charlottesville Parks & Recreation and the CLASS Program Charlottesville City Public Schools

“What is your child doing this summer?” For 378 children last summer the answer was Camp ExL, a collaborative partnership between Charlottesville Parks & Recreation and CLASS, the division’s after school program. Camp ExL offers elementary-age children a comprehensive program that focuses on extended learning, recreation, enrichment, and weekly field trips. As a result of the sliding scale tuition, 81% of last summer’s attendees came for free, received transportation to and from camp, and had nutritious meals each day. Camp ExL offers educational and recreational experiences that expand children’s background knowledge and enrich their lives. Academically, they learn the joys of reading, the challenges of “brain games”, and the fun of science. Athletically, children participate in sports, swimming, and active play. For enrichment they attend clubs, arts and crafts, and field trips locally and across the Commonwealth. For many children this is the first time they have owned a book, been to the pool, or traveled to a historic location.

Superintendent: Dr. Rosa Atkins Contact: Tracy Coleman, Senior Site Director CLASS Program – Charlottesville City Schools 434-245-2511

11 Program of Accelerated Learning (PAL) Chesapeake City Public Schools

The Program of Accelerated Learning (PAL) is a citywide program offered to middle school students enrolled in Chesapeake Public Schools. PAL is an intervention for students who failed the current seventh grade or who successfully completed the current sixth grade, but previously had one or more retentions in grades K-6. The goal of the program is to keep students in school by providing two years of instruction in one year in order to get students on track with their age peers. Students complete an intensive school year focused on the four core content areas—English, math, social studies, and science, which are taught based on the Standards of Learning. From September through December the focus is the seventh grade curriculum, and from January through June the focus is the eighth grade curriculum. Students take the eighth grade Standards of Learning test. Upon successful completion of the program, students advance to the ninth grade, putting them at their age-appropriate grade level.

Superintendent: Dr. James T. Roberts Contact: Linda Byrd, Director of Secondary Curriculum and Instruction 757-547-0153

2010 Title I Summer Instructional Leadership Academy Chesapeake City Public Schools

Chesapeake Public Schools approached professional development in a unique manner by having a summer academy for the teacher/administrator teams of our ten Title I schools. Over 200 educators participated in a day-long event. The feedback was so positive that the summer academy will become an annual event. Two national author/speakers, Mr. Peter Bruin and Mr. Salome Thomas-El, led informative keynote sessions that inspired the teachers to embrace the academy theme of “Planning, Thinking, and Teaching Out- side of the Bowl” with practical strategies for teaching all children. Each participant could also select 3 of 12 breakout sessions in which teachers and other practitioners shared the best practices that had proven effective in raising the achievement of students. Armed with a day packed with new knowledge and the books of the two main speakers to share with the rest of their faculty, the teams set goals to begin a new school year stirring up the waters and challenging themselves and their colleagues to make the best educational decisions for all children.

Superintendent: Dr. James T. Roberts Contact: Diane Watkins, Program Administrator/ Title I 757-547-1183

Elizabeth River Barge Project Chesapeake City Public Schools

Since 2008, the Chesapeake Public Schools has been a partner with the Elizabeth River Project. The partnership has provided opportunities for students at all levels to conduct field experiments aboard The Learning Barge, a floating classroom designed to help children learn about the conservation and wetlands restoration. Participating students raise Spartina alterniflora plants, or marsh grass, in biodegradable pots. They track the growth and collect scientific data on their grass projects. At the end of the school year, the students transfer their growing plants to designated restoration sites. The project has been so successful that teachers must plan their field trip experiences to the Eliza- beth River Barge many months in advance. The barge provides a unique setting for hands-on activities that foster understandings that are directly related to many of the Virginia Standards of Learning. Students become engaged in instructional endeavors that will have a positive, lifelong impact on our environment and on the young participants as well.

Superintendent: Dr. James T. Roberts Contact: Dr. Anita James, Director of Elementary Curriculum and Instruction 757-547-0153

12 Effective Schoolwide Discipline Chesterfield County Public Schools

Effective Schoolwide Discipline, a Virginia Department of Education project, provides a framework for developing a well-orchestrated system of tiered interventions that produce and sustain improvements in student behavior. Participating schools receive professional development and coaching support as they implement innovative positive behavior interventions tailored to address their specific priorities. Effective Schoolwide Discipline provides a systems approach that teaches schools how to implement data-driven problem-solving to build innovative and effective solutions using evidence-based practices and research-based interventions. At this time, 19 Chesterfield County schools are participating in Cohort No. 4. This total is more than any other school division in Virginia.

Superintendent: Dr. Marcus Newsome Contact: Carolyn Lamm, Positive Behavior Support Coordinator 804-594-1786

CCPS SOL/SAT Academies Chesterfield County Public Schools

Chesterfield County Public Schools offers a SOL Academy to all students in grades 9-12 who have passed a Virginia Standards of Learning course but failed the corresponding state-mandated test. The SOL Academy is provided four times a year, twice in January and twice in May, and for four weeks during the summer. The school-year academy remediates 500-600 students, and the summer academy serves approximately 400 students. More than 80 percent of participating students are successful in passing previously failed SOL tests after attending the academy. Perfect attendance incentives are offered. Chesterfield also provides a SAT Academy to all juniors and seniors during the academic year and summer. The SAT Academy serves approximately 700 students during the academic year and 1,300 students during the summer. Teachers provide pre- and post- testing for all students enrolled. Each student receives a free SAT preparation text. Chesterfield hires master teachers to teach both the SOL and SAT academies. The academies run in two-hour sessions. By offering free transportation, a variety of geographical locations, perfect attendance incentives, snacks and test preparation materials, the academies have proven successful in increasing academic achievement.

Superintendent: Dr. Marcus Newsome Contact: Karen Newcomb, M.Ed., SOL/SAT Academies Administrator 804-594-1768

13 Self-Determination: Everyone Wins Chesterfield County Public Schools

The mission of Chesterfield County Public Schools (CCPS) emphasizes that all students will become self-directed learners. CCPS formed a partnership with the “I’m Determined” Project, an initiative funded at the state level that now involves 18 schools and 180 teachers. This project provides opportunities for students and staff to practice self-determined behaviors such as decision making, problem-solving, goal- setting, self-instruction and self-advocacy. Through activities such as student-led conferences, increased student participation in Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings and the “Growing Leaders” Program, students assume responsibility and become actively involved and self-directed in their education. Student-led conferences empower students, parents and teachers to communicate as equal partners. During IEP meetings, students present PowerPoints, one-pagers and portfolios that describe their strengths and learning needs. A “Growing Leaders” program prepares students to become mentors and leaders. Involvement in this project has led to an increase in students’ self-esteem and awareness, clarified understanding of their educational needs, and contributed to improved achievement and grades.

Superintendent: Dr. Marcus Newsome Contact: Judy Averill, Coordinator of Transition Services

A Minute in Colonial Beach History Colonial Beach Public Schools

Each month a different grade level presents an historical event that is part of the history of Colonial Beach. The students present at each monthly School Board Meeting as well as the monthly Town Council Meeting. The citizens get a chance to meet the younger generation and the students gain experience in public speaking and in social manners such as introductions and the correct order of recognition of elected officials. The instructional advantage is that students present what is grade level SOL social studies objectives in a power point, play or choral presentation. All grades from K – 12 are scheduled to present.

Superintendent: Dr. Donna Power Contact: Dr. Donna Power 804-224-8080

Colonial Heights Middle School: CHMS NEWS Colonial Heights City Public Schools

One of the new programs that we created this year was CHMS NEWS. CHMS NEWS has students presenting the news for the school. The news is video-taped and broadcast to all students. The students talk about a number of topics. They have created anti-bullying messages and talked about disabilities during Dis- ability Awareness month. Students record a video of sporting events and are seen as leaders within the school..

Superintendent: Dr. Joseph O. Cox, Jr. Contact: Mr. William Hortz, Principal 804-526-3420

14 Lakeview Elementary School: FBI SOS (Safe Online Surfing) Internet Challenge Colonial Heights City Public Schools

Lakeview’s Librarian and Media Specialist teaches internet safety as a part of the curriculum, however this year, she took it to a whole new level! Students in grades three, four, and five participated in the FBI SOS (Safe Online Surfing) Internet Challenge. The goal of the Challenge is to promote cyber- citizenship among students by engaging them in a fun, age appropriate, and competitive online program. Students took a pre-test and throughout the month of October went on internet scavenger hunts to find and learn more information about internet safety. At the end of the month, students took a post-test. In November, we were informed that the fifth graders received the highest score in the nation on the Challenge! At an assembly, the fifth grade was presented with the first place trophy and high scorers were presented with special awards. This is something they will always remember and the skills learned will help them throughout their school years.

Superintendent: Dr. Joseph O. Cox, Jr. Contact: Mrs. Valerie Wiggins, Principal 804-526-3435

North Elementary School: Program: Recycle program designed to promote “Going Green” Colonial Heights City Public Schools

A few years ago North Elementary went into the recycling business. We worked with Waste Man- agement to do more than just set the bins on the sidewalks. We were able to have a concrete slab poured and have a large recycling station installed so that the students could recycle even more items than the small sidewalk bins would allow. On Thursday of every week our recycling club gathers with volunteer students from the high school to go around the school and pick up items that are allowed to go in the big station. At North Elementary School, we feel the need to start reaching children at an earlier age by getting them involved in community service so they will stay away from undesirable groups that are targeting kids at an early age.

Superintendent: Dr. Joseph O. Cox, Jr. Contact: Mr. Thomas Pond, Principal 804-526-3430

Teachers Helping Teachers Helping Students Covington City Public Schools

The 2010-2011 daily schedule for Jeter-Watson Intermediate School is designed to provide additional instructional support for the students and for the classroom teachers. The block of time normally allo- cated for non-core area classes (art, P.E., music, and Spanish) has been reduced. The additional time is real- located to the core area classes. Non-core area teachers have assigned and flexible blocks of time throughout the day in which they provide assistance for students and teachers in English, math, science, and history. The additional support provided by the non-core area teachers is an important part to the academic success of the students at JWIS. They provide one-on-one and small group support within the regular classroom and in pull-out settings. Being in the core area classrooms daily, working directly with the students and teachers, they are more able to recognize student academic strengths and weaknesses. Familiarity with core area subject matter and state standards also provides the non-core area teachers the opportunity to connect art, P.E., music, and Spanish to the core-area classes.

Superintendent: Mr. Thomas Long Contact: Ellen P. Nipper, Director of Instruction and Technology 540-965-1400

15 “Cougar Morning” Covington City Public Schools

Covington High School implemented a new remediation/enrichment plan for the 2010-2011 school year. All of our 8th – 12th grade students attend an early morning remediation or enrichment class from 7:55- 8:25 a.m. We call this our “Cougar Morning”. At the conclusion of each grading period, students are given a benchmark test to determine strengths and weaknesses in core area SOLs. As a result of the analyzed benchmark test data, the students are assigned to remediation or enrichment by their teachers. If a student is selected to attend remediation, he/she may transition to an enrichment class as academic performance improves. Too, students passing their benchmark the first time are selected for enrichment class either part of the week or all of the week. Enrichment classes include the following: band and choir, 21st Century Skills including technology and STEM, Cyberbullying, Senior Exploratory, art, Spanish, Virginia Wizard Career Exploration, FCCLA, Drug and Alcohol Awareness, Advanced Physical Education, and Study Skills. Students have the opportunity to be rewarded each grading period with a “Cougar Morning Pass” using the following criteria:  Perfect attendance for the previous grading period;  Benchmark test(s) with a passing score (80 or above); and No discipline referrals received for the grading period. The criterion referenced above increases by one each grading period. For example, if a student has perfect attendance, passes all benchmark tests, and has no discipline referrals, he will receive a “Cougar Morning Pass” with 3 days to report to school at 8:25 (the beginning of first period) instead of 7:55.

Superintendent: Mr. Thomas Long Contact: Ellen P. Nipper, Director of Instruction and Technology 540-965-1400

Literacy Nights at Edgemont Primary School Covington City Public Schools

The faculty and staff of Edgemont Primary School have established “Literacy Nights,” which are held periodically during the school year. Each session is planned to offer helpful information for students, parents and guardians, and community members. We provide a chance for stakeholders to visit our wonderful facility and exchange ideas with staff members as well as guest speakers. Several topics may be covered in half-hour blocks. Parents and children have a choice of which sessions they attend during the one and one -half hour time period. Thus far we have held workshops for: 1) SmartBoard Use in Classroom Instruction; 2) Autism Awareness; 3) Pre-School Readiness; 4) What is Title I?; 5) “Readosauris”, with Mark Daniel; 6) The Hun- gary Caterpillar, with parent tips for helping students succeed; 7) Computer Lab time, with tutoring in the use of various computer programs and Internet use; 8) a Make-It Take-It, with dinner provided; and 9) instruction in the use of our iPod Touch lab and applications. Literacy Night activities are printed on our monthly calendar/menu that is provided for each family. Also, we send reminder notices to each home just prior to the event. Attendance has varied, but we experience success when even one parent or student benefits from our efforts. Students are very proud when their parents or guardians are able to attend these events, and they love to “shine” while showing the adults how to use some of the state-of-the-art technology available at Edgemont Primary School.

Superintendent: Mr. Thomas Long Contact: Ellen P. Nipper, Director of Instruction and Technology 540-965-1400

16 E Squared Culpeper County Public Schools

Culpeper County Public Schools and the Culpeper community have worked together to create E Squared (Entrepreneurial Energy). The purpose of the E Squared Competition is to expose high school students to real-life business situations both through training by local business people and through the team experience of creating a business venture in a competitive environment. The use of trainers with business experience reinforces and adds relevance to the academic curriculum. The E Squared Competition consists of teams of 4-6 students from Career & Technical classes designing new business ventures and developing Business Plans to support obtaining financing from the fictitious E Squared Venture Capital Group. An assessment tool called the “E Squared Investment Evaluation Rubric” is used by each judge. Participants study carefully the weighting system used in the Evaluation Rubric. The E Squared Competition is a significant part of each student’s spring Career & Technology Education curriculum. In addition to the opportunity to win the competition and substantial scholarship funding, all students are graded according to their efforts by their respective classroom teachers. Our rubrics and all other relative information can be found on our student created website, www.esquaredculpeper.com.

Superintendent: Dr. Bobbi Johnson Contact: Randi Richards-Lutz, Career and Technical Administrator 540-825-3677, extension 2015

My Big Campus Cumberland County Public Schools

Cumberland County Public Schools is implementing the educational platform, My Big Campus, for middle and high school students and staff. My Big Campus, provided by Lightspeed systems, is an Internet hub providing an educational platform and safe social networking capabilities. Rich learning resources and Web 2.0 tools can be accessed while keeping everyone safe, secure, and compliant with the law. Communi- cation tools include closed messaging, blogging, group discussions, online assignments, and event calendar- ing. Students, staff, and administration have improved communication at all levels and are providing students with the online skills needed for college and the workplace. Students and staff utilize online discussions and blogs, and assignments are posted and submitted through the electronic platform. Event calendars assist in keeping everyone informed and organized. Students and Staff establish “Walls” and have access to closed messaging which provides a safe, secure, and monitored social networking environment for students. The Superintendent’s Group Page can be reviewed at http://www.mybigcampus.com/groups/superintendent- s-group and the Superintendent’s Blog at http://www.mybigcampus.com/blog/amy-griffin-s-blog.

Superintendent: Amy Griffin Contact: Amy Griffin, Ed. D., Division Superintendent 804-492-4212

17 Sustainability and Renewable Technologies Course Cumberland County Public Schools

Cumberland County Public Schools, collaborating with the Virginia Department of Education, has developed and is piloting a Sustainability and Renewable Technologies course for high school students. This course addresses workforce demands in sustainable design, renewable energy, and green building design. Students learn about becoming active global citizens while raising awareness within the community about the impacts of individual’s choices on the environment and the resources consumed. Activities and instruction revolve around the state of the environment and the solutions that ensure a sustainable future. Students complete ecological footprint projects, evaluate the school’s recycling, and implement service projects to improve current efforts and reduce cafeteria waste production. Students conduct a ten-week investigation on landfill design and decomposition rates of various materials. Students also coordinate community awareness events to address recycling, composting, and energy conservation. With the “greening” of the workforce and need for awareness about our impact on the world, this course is a solid step toward addressing the educational needs that are facing future generations.

Superintendent: Amy Griffin Contact: Amy Griffin 804-492-4212

GET IT Program Danville City Public Schools

Danville Public Schools addresses the needs of its secondary overage population through the GET IT Program housed on the alternative education campus. Based on identified need and a parent/student interview, selected students and parents have a signed contract mandating attendance, behavior, and academic performance. Operating as a school-within-a-school, the program utilizes block scheduling and computerized assisted instruction. This rigorous, non-traditional program is open to students in grades 9-12 who want to earn a diploma by age 19. An Individual Graduation Plan is developed for each student by the program co-chairs who oversee the implementation of the IGP on a daily basis while providing assistance with coursework, SOL preparation, reading skills, math skills, technology skills, organizational skills, and study skills. Students spend from one to six semesters in the program depending on the number of courses and verified credits needed to earn either a standard or advanced studies diploma.

Superintendent: Sue Davis Contacts: Pamella L. Kincaid or Lillie-Carolyn H. Garrett 434-799-5249

“9-5-2-1-0 Zip Code to Your Health” Fairfax County Public Schools

To address the childhood obesity epidemic and promote the FCPS Wellness Policy initiatives Food and Nutrition Services promoted the first countywide wellness message “9-5-2-1-0 Zip Code to Your Health” in all elementary schools. The Zip Code daily message is “ 9 hours of sleep, 5 servings fruit and vegetables, 2 hours screen time, 1 hour exercise and 0 sugary drinks.” Using fact sheets for each number of the zip code teachers incorporated the message into a variety of subject areas, physical education, and morning announcements. The entire school including clinic aides, nurses and food and nutrition services team members participated in the event. Schools resonated with the Zip Code Song and parents received a newsletter outlining the wellness message. http://www.fcps.edu/fs/food/food_at_school/9-5-2-1- 0ZipCodetoYourHealth/index.htm.

Superintendent: Dr. Jack Dale Contact: Penny McConnell, MS, RD, SNS Director 703-813-4811

18 Delivering Instruction to Diverse Learners: The Work of Professional Learning Communities Fairfax County Public Schools

In collaboration with the University of Virginia, FCPS has created a new graduate level course, De- livering Instruction to Diverse Learners: The Work of Professional Learning Communities designed to meet the needs of teachers who work with diverse populations of students, specifically special education and Eng- lish learners. Each section brings collaborative school teams of teachers and administrators together to learn the theory of and participation in Professional Learning Communities. These collaborative teams delve into the process of unwrapping content standards and use best practices for teaching and learning in order to make learning comprehensible for all students. Participants develop and identify the tools and strategies needed to adjust their teaching and apply those strategies immediately with their students. Throughout the course, teachers take their learning into the classroom and transform theory into practice. This real-life application creates a deeper understanding of how to manage a classroom of students with diverse needs and how to effectively meet the needs of all students in their classroom.

Superintendent: Dr. Jack Dale Contact: Kim P. Dockery, Assistant Superintendent, Special Services 571-423-4010

Mount Daniel School Family Discovery Series: Science in the Night Sky Falls Church City Public Schools

Family Discovery Series began at Mount Daniel School as a way for families to join their children in science-focused events in the school yard. During the second in the series, more than 500 adults and children attended Science in the Night Sky. Seven astronomers brought a variety of telescopes for all to observe the moons of Jupiter and a bright, almost full moon. Night Sky Bingo, the construction of an earth orbiter, stories under the stars, and constellation discovery delighted and engaged our students and their families. These events coincide with units studied within the classroom. Families enjoy these exciting opportunities to be at school to discover how they can be part of their students’ learning in our natural world! This evening was so well attended that teachers plan to design Science on the Wing where students will discover animals that fly in our neighborhood during the day and night.

Superintendent: Dr. Lois Berlin Contact: Kathleen A. Halayko, Principal 703-248-5644

The AP Potential Program Fauquier County Public Schools

Fauquier County’s AP Potential Program is designed to encourage more high school students to enroll in more rigorous coursework. Fauquier County Public Schools administers the PSAT to all of its sopho- mores. When the PSAT results come in, a retired FCPS administrator, who serves as the lead for the AP Potential program, examines the schedules of all students on the College Board’s “potential” list and targets students whose schedules show that they have not chosen the most rigorous course offerings. Prior to registering for the next year’s classes, these students are then invited to a meeting to encourage them to enroll in an honors or AP courses the following year. An AP Summer Academy is also promoted to give students a learning boost during the summer months. 95% of those AP Potential students have received a grade of C or better in the honors or AP courses; 73%, a B or better.

Superintendent: Dr. Jonathan Lewis Contact: Sandra Mitchell; [email protected]

19 Willis Elementary School Students Glow like Shining Stars Floyd County Public Schools

The WES STAR (Students Taking Appropriate Responsibility) Program was developed in 2004 to encourage fourth through seventh grade students to be involved in and to make positive changes concerning their own education…and their own rewards. Based on the concept that a strong coach keeps the team focused, the STAR program helps students set goals, focus, and reap the rewards. An integral portion of the STAR program, SAC (Student Activity Choice) allows students to make daily choices based on their attitude, attendance, school work completion, and responsibility. Choices for daily activities include gym time, art, computers, school helpers, tutors, and remediation. For those students choosing not to have the proper attitude, work, etc. a required study hall is chosen. At the end of each grading period, students who have attended SAC approximately 90% of the time and have not been suspended from school achieve the STAR award. These awards include bowling, movies, hiking, roller skating, etc. Parents, students, faculty, and staff members love the STAR program. School-wide reading and math scores have jumped from a low of 81% and 73% respectively in 2006 to a school-wide high of 96% and 95% in 2009, as well as, earning the 2010 Governor’s Award of Educational Excellence.

Superintendent: Dr. Terry E. Arbogast Contact: Ms. Sandy Montgomery, Principal of Willis Elementary School 540-745-9430

Community Partnerships Play Key Role in the Success of an After School Remediation Program Floyd County Public Schools

Floyd Elementary School is excited to be able to provide a yearlong after-school tutoring program for the first time! Through Title I funding the school is able to provide tutoring each Tuesday and Thursday for grades 3 – 7 for the 2011-2012 school year. Based on AYP data, the school determined a need to focus efforts on reading remediation during this time with a specific need for disadvantaged students. Fifty-eight students, 69% being disadvantaged, currently attend the program. Students receive remediation for specific reading skills and specific Standards of Learning objectives. Student progress is assessed through benchmark testing which includes an Interactive Achievement Reading Assessment and the Developmental Read- ing Assessment. In addition to providing remediation services, the school has formed a partnership with The Jacksonville Center for the Arts to provide an hour of art programs for students after they finish their hour of remediation. Students have participated in Ghanaian Drum and Dance, Graphic Design, Dance, Polymer Clay, Songwrit- ing, Drama and much more thanks to teachers from the Jacksonville Center. The school has also partnered with PLENTY, who provides healthy snacks to the participating students before tutoring begins. Bus transportation is included, which allows all students the opportunity to participate. Not only does the program address academic needs, it provides students art opportunities that they might not ever have the opportunity to experience. Students are actually excited about attending tutoring because of the school’s partnerships. It is not uncommon to hear students cheer in the hallway when they are told what art program they get to participate in for the evening!

Superintendent: Dr. Terry E. Arbogast Contact: Deborah West, Principal 540-745-9440

20 Helping Hands Fluvanna County Public Schools

Each year Fluvanna Middle School organizes a group of students that assists the Fluvanna County High School, Fluvanna Middle School, Central Elementary School, Cunningham Elementary, and Columbia Elementary School with a variety of projects. The Fluvanna Middle School students in the Helping Hands class: Read to elementary school students Perform minor landscaping, recycling, and custodial projects Visit the elderly in local nursing homes Reach out to assist elderly citizens with small projects Mentor young children Being a member of the Helping Hands class is a privilege. Students receive a grade and are expected to model appropriate behavior. The students practice problem solving skills, teamwork, and are part of a so- lution focused experience. This class teaches good leadership and assists the students in becoming good citizens of Fluvanna County.

Superintendent: Dr. Gena Keller Contacts: Kathi Driver, Principal Mike Sheridan, Teacher and Sponsor 434-842-2222

Extended Study: Franklin High School Franklin City Public Schools

Every student is assigned to an extended study, which also serves as his/her homeroom. Extended study provides students with an opportunity to receive help from core teachers, meet with clubs, and in general focus on learning outside the normal classroom environment. All students are in an assigned designated area for a period of 4.5 weeks. The criterion for assignment is having below a 2.5 GPA, poor benchmark performances, grades, SOL re-takers, “Tenth-Twelfth grade watch list” and teacher/guidance recommendations. Fridays are set aside for Advisory (in lieu of extended study). The purpose of Advisory is to discuss issues of leadership, ethics, SAT prep, bullying and character education. Logs and triage forms are completed to track the performance of the students. As they improve, they are rotated off unless they trigger 2 or more areas (attendance, grades, discipline). Monthly meetings are conducted with the stakeholders allowing for discussion of improvement/strategies/techniques. The percentage of our subject pass rate improved after the first nine weeks due to the increased time spent on remediation and one-on-one time.

Superintendent: Dr. Michelle R. Belle Contacts: Rodney Berry, Principal 757-562-5187 Sandy Atkinson, Lead Teacher 757-562-5187

21 Family Reading Night Franklin City Public Schools

Family Reading Night is held weekly at S. P. Morton Elementary School to encourage families to come to school and read together. Students and parents read books together and the children then take Accel- erated Reading tests. The computerized Accelerated Reading tests consist of comprehension questions. The children get immediate feed-back on the percentage of questions answered correctly. After the children read their books, they complete cards with titles of the books and their name. These cards are displayed in the hallway each week. Parents are given brochures on ways to work with their children at home. Students receive treats for attending and reading books. Activities such as book swaps and math estimation games take place weekly. Not only do parents and students participate in Family Reading Night, teachers and support staff take turns staying from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM each week to work with the different grade levels. Teachers eagerly volunteer to assist the parents and children in the selection of books and using the Accelerated Read- ing program. As a result of students having this additional opportunity to read, teachers are seeing great improvements in the students’ reading performance and in their desire to read. Our Family Reading Night is successful and continues to be an annual event due to the wonderful community. The funding for this program comes solely from individuals, families, and business donations.

Superintendent: Dr. Michelle R. Belle Contacts: Laura Vick, Reading Specialist 757-562-5458 Donald F. Spengeman, Principal 757-562-5458

Center for Energy Efficient Design (CEED) Franklin County Public Schools

The Center for Energy Efficient Design (CEED) is a state of the art educational center that is an energy efficient building. Using technologies that include PassivHaus Design, earth berming, south facing orientation, thermal mass, geothermal energy, photovoltaics, solar water heaters, electricity-producing wind turbines, rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient appliances, and daylight harvesting, this building will be a template for residential and educational construction for the 21st century. Using the building components themselves as the focus, the CEED will be a regional resource for students, architects, builders, and home- owners in the local community, Southwest Virginia, and through an interactive website, virtually anywhere. It will spur innovation and economic growth throughout Southwest Virginia in particular with the movement to a “green” economy. Most importantly, it will teach the children of Franklin County and the region the fundamentals of creating a greener world for themselves and the generations to come. The students who tour the CEED will be involved in hands-on activities that use the real-time data produced by the applications in the building. A monitoring system will record data from a variety of sources in the building as well as the weather. Students will use that data to compare technologies, compute energy usage, and predict energy savings. Instructional activities are based on the Virginia SOLs and will be available on the school’s website.

Superintendent: Dr. Charles Lackey Contact: Kevin G. Bezy, Principal 540-483-5446 or [email protected]

22 Reading Ambassadors Fredericksburg City Public Schools

Hugh Mercer Elementary School has launched an exciting initiative called Reading Ambassadors. The Reading Ambassadors Program, which was implemented in October of this year, is designed to promote a love of reading while fostering language structure, vocabulary development and comprehension. Reading Ambassadors are second grade students who were recommended by their teachers for their reading ability. Every Monday through Thursday, these students read stories to kindergarteners for 20 minutes a day. The stories they read include fairy tales, nursery rhymes, and some best-loved picture books. Literacy Coaches meet with Reading Ambassadors weekly to provide guidance and materials to be used within the program. As the Reading Ambassadors are introduced to new stories, Literacy Coaches share instructional strategies and provide opportunities for Reading Ambassadors to rehearse the books. This program has a dual purpose. It provides opportunities for the Reading Ambassadors to practice reading aloud to an audience, and it helps the Kindergarten students, the ones being read to, in that they benefit from hearing complex story structures, expanding vocabulary, learning about authors and illustrators, practicing with pho- nemic awareness and having rich discussions that promote comprehension and understanding. This program is a winner at Hugh Mercer Elementary School.

Superintendent: Dr. David G. Melton Contact: Mrs. Marjorie Tankersley, Principal, 540-372-1115

JAYEM A.M. Fredericksburg City Public Schools The objective of JAYEM A.M. is to provide an opportunity to close the achievement gap, enhance student achievement, and to continue to meet N.C.L.B. and A.Y.P. standards by creating an Academic Exten- sion period at the beginning of the school day. The JAYEM A.M. Program will give students an opportunity for enrichment, remediation and review, complete make-up work, and assist other students with peer tutoring. On Fridays, students will also have the opportunity to participate in club meetings, and our Upperclassmen mentors will formally meet with their mentees from the ninth grade class. The program will also allow teachers to conduct their correlate and departmental meetings during the school day instead of after school. Corre- late meetings will focus on improving school policy and decreasing the student drop-out rate. Departmental meetings will focus on analyzing or developing pacing guides, common assessments, technology integrations, and student remediation techniques.

Superintendent: Dr. David G. Melton Contact: Mr. John B. Gordon III, Principal, 540-372-1100

7th grade Career Focus Class at Galax Middle School Galax City Public Schools

At Galax Middle, we have a daily 30 minute Focus period for enrichment/remediation. We have recently added a career focus class in which all 7th graders participate for 6 weeks, centered on the 16 career clusters that they will use to guide their high school studies. Each cluster is discussed and the Virginia Wizard Interest, Skills, and Values Inventories are completed, helping students design their Academic and Career Plans (ACP) prior to high school. Field trips are planned within the community so that students may experience aspects of the various career clusters in the real world. In addition, students from high school classes and clubs are invited to speak, giving 7th grade students an idea of the possibilities available to them at the high school. Our WCC Career Coach and Middle and High School Guidance Counselors assist as needed.

Superintendent: Mr. William Sturgill Contact: Kristie Legg, Principal 276-236‐6124 or [email protected]

23 “Tales a Wagging” Galax City Public Schools

It’s all smiles and tail wags when River comes to Galax Elementary School wearing her star shaped sunglasses and carrying her “I Love to Read” backpacks. River, a certified pet therapy Visla, is the star at- traction in the Read to Dogs incentive program being implemented by Anne Standen, a volunteer handler with Therapy Dogs International, and Chris Blevins, a teacher of high risk/special needs students in grades one through four. This program was designed to provide encouragement and motivation to a targeted group of children who find reading to be difficult and as a result are anxious and unmotivated to put in the practice required to become a fluent reader. However, the opportunity to curl up with River, pet her, and share their favorite book in a relaxed atmosphere, sends students back to their classrooms or the school library to find that special book to practice and share with River on her return visit. The biggest advantage to the program has been watching the children want to read. All who have been involved in this program have been truly grateful. The students have gained confidence in reading, learned responsibility, as well as respect for animals. The students also know they are part of a bigger picture. They know their laughter, sharing, and enthusiasm gives River her much needed break from her daily work at the cancer center. What a winning situation for all involved !

Superintendent: Mr. William Sturgill Contact: Brian Stuart, Principal 276‐236‐6159 or [email protected]

Seeds of Success Galax City Public Schools

Seeds of Success, an after-school club at Galax Elementary School, is geared at providing at-risk students with the opportunity to build a strong relationship with the school and community through after- school trips, and school/community based activities. Club members were selected based on behavioral and/ or academic concerns or were recommended by a teacher because a need for an increased connection to the school community was seen. The club is led by Assistant Principal, Annie Whitaker in conjunction with a day treatment counselor from Mt. Rogers Community Services Board, Mr. Rob Catron. The goal of Seeds of Success is to provide a positive, afterschool program for children that reinforces positive behaviors while simultaneously providing an opportunity for students to be more involved in service to the school and community. The success of the SOS program is measured by increased student involvement in school and decreased disciplinary concerns.

Superintendent: Mr. William Sturgill Contact: Annie Whitaker, Assistant Principal 276-236-6159 or [email protected]

Macy McClaugherty School Giles County Public Schools

At Macy McClaugherty School in Pearisburg, Virginia, our students are dedicated to their school and community. Our service learning group of Macy Mentors consists of 53 students and 2 club sponsors. The group is comprised of 6th and 7th grade students who have expressed an interest in community service and maintain good academic performance as well as good behavior. In addition to being leaders within our school, these students also serve as positive role models. The group meets once a month to discuss ideas for upcoming service projects. These projects benefit both the school and community. Our newest project started this year gives the Mentors a chance to truly take on the role of mentoring our younger students in grades K-5. Incorporating our school mascot, the Macy Tiger, our Mentors serve as “Tigers” who develop a positive peer relationship with the younger students also known as the “Cubs.”

Superintendent: Dr. Terry E. Arbogast, II Contact: Larissa Wurtz, School Counselor, Macy McClaugherty School 540-921-1363

24 Grades 1st and 2nd PALS After-School Reading Program Giles County Public Schools

Two days a week, twenty-six enthusiastic First and Second Graders hang out after school at Eastern Elementary Middle School for additional reading practice. This remediation program is ‘kicked off’ with a little ABC aerobics. A full body work out of reciting the alphabet or singing phonic songs coordinated with different movements to ‘wake-up’ students after a full regular school day. Once awake and ready, students alternate work groups in the computer lab or classroom based on assigned groups. PALS tutor, Mrs. Erica Gautier or Second Grade Classroom teacher, Mrs. Christy Jones gathers small groups or individuals to work on specific skills identified by the PALS screening. As students reunite with family members, excitement is in the air. Students share victories of mastering lessons or eagerly read new sets of words from handmade flashcards or word family crafts. Nonetheless, a strong sense of accomplishment is sensed by all.

Superintendent: Dr. Terry E. Arbogast, II Contacts: 2nd Grade Teacher, Mrs. Christy Jones 540-626-7281 PALS Tutor, Mrs. Erica Gautier 540-626-7281 Principal, Mr. Greg Canaday 540-626-7281

Elementary Art Program Giles County Public Schools

Nikki Pynn plans fun, creative projects for students in grades 1-3 as well as gifted art students in grades K-7 weekly in all three elementary schools in Giles County. First grade students have participated and placed in the Virginia Tech Martin Luther King Poster and Essay Contest which focuses on diversity. Winning students and their families proudly attended Virginia Tech’s Annual MLK Community Breakfast. Mrs. Pynn enabled our students to participate in the 2006 bicentennial celebration of Giles County by collaborating with local artists to create a representation of our beautiful county from their perspective. Students across Giles County can come back and show their children this lasting display portrayed on a covered wall behind the courthouse.

Superintendent: Dr. Terry E. Arbogast, II Contact: Nikki Pynn, Elementary Art Teacher- Giles County [email protected] or 540-726-2391

Re-“Kindle”ing the Love of Reading Gloucester County Public Schools

At Petsworth Elementary School, we are utilizing Amazon Kindles (an electronic reader) in both 2nd and 5th grades to encourage struggling and advanced readers. The new technology captures the imagination of our tech-savvy readers by providing an exciting format. The program involves students reading books on the Kindles and responding to questions that have been embedded into the text. The questions have been designed to promote creative and reflective thinking. To demonstrate their understanding, students record their thoughts in response journals. The students can work at their own pace and on a designated day, the group will come together and share their thoughts about the book. Another advantage is having the built in dictionary that enables students to immediately access unknown words, therefore, vocabulary instruction is tailored to each student. This overall literature experience is student driven.

Superintendent: Dr. Howard B. Kiser Contact: Sharon Carino/Cynthia Mabry, 2nd Grade Teachers 804-693-6161

25 Rhymes ‘n’ Times Gloucester County Public Schools

A teaching tool Botetourt discovered is the Rhymes ‘n’ Times for multiplication. It is a compact series of lessons designed to teach the required multiplication facts in three weeks of intense practice with rhymes, manipulatives and practice fact sheets. To quote the creator of the program, “Rhymes ‘n’ Times is a multi-sensory program that works because it addresses all 4 learning styles to meet individual student needs. It provides a reference for answers, so you will see a drastic increase in the retention of facts immediately.”

Superintendent: Dr. Howard B. Kiser Contact: Catherine Vogt, 3rd Grade Teacher, 804-693-2151 Michelle Cagnon, Principal, 804-693-2151

Struggling Reader Workshops Grayson County Public Schools

In the continuous effort to improve student achievement, Grayson County Public Schools are providing innovative professional development to middle and high school English teachers to target the improvement of essential reading skills of middle and high school struggling readers. The workshops were developed and conducted by local school division specialists and administrators. The workshops provide teachers with current research-based strategies for improving reading in the areas of comprehension, fluency and vocabulary. Teachers are also trained to conduct and interpret reading assessments in order to plan individual interventions for struggling readers and increase their reading skills. All workshops are high energy and engaging for participants.

Superintendent: Dr. Elizabeth Thomas Contact: Stephen C. Cornett, Director of Instruction 276-773-2832

Teachers for Tomorrow Grayson County High School

Grayson County High School offers the Virginia Teachers for Tomorrow program. The program is offered to high school juniors and seniors interested in pursuing a career in education. The program is designed to attract potential teaching candidates to the field of education through hands-on experience that focuses on teaching. Students must apply to enter the program and meet the requirements of maintaining a minimum 2.7 grade average; submit three satisfactory teacher recommendations; and submit a brief essay. Grayson County High School students in the Teacher for Tomorrow program work with mentor teachers throughout the division to gain first-hand experience in a variety of grade levels. Upon completion of the program, students receive college credit through Wytheville Community College.

Superintendent: Dr. Elizabeth Thomas Contact: Stephen C. Cornett, Director of Instruction 276-773-2832

26 Istations Reading Program Grayson County Public Schools

Grayson County Public Schools began the implementation of the Istations Reading Program during the 2010-2011 school year. The Istation Reading Program is a comprehensive reading and intervention program developed in accordance to scientifically based reading research. It provides data to each individual school to ensure students learn to read by automating progress monitoring, individualizing instruction on the computer and in the classroom, as well as, providing district, school, class and student reports that cate- gorize risk and show skill growth. Professional development for administrators and teachers are held continuously throughout the school year to insure effective implementation of the program. Each individual school works collaborative as a team to provide appropriate reading interventions to enable all students to become successful readers, ultimately leading to higher student achievement.

Superintendent: Dr. Elizabeth Thomas, Contact: Susie Funk, Supervisor of Elementary Education 276-773-2832

The Dove Customer Services Award in Hampton City Schools Hampton City Public Schools

This school year, the Hampton School Board and administration rolled out a new Customer Service Initiative throughout the district. The initiative was designed to focus on "raising the bar" on providing exceptional customer service, both internally and externally. A key component to this initiative was the development of the DOVE Award. The DOVE ( Dedication of Valuable Employees) Award is presented to someone in the division who really “gets it” when it comes to providing exceptional customer service, which in turn results in positive impacts on everyone from students to parents to co-workers. Faculty and staff members can be nominated by anyone in the community via the division's website, which touts a special Customer Service link. All nominations must include information on how the individual has provided exceptional customer service, as well as how the employee's actions impact one's overall perception of Hamp- ton City Schools. Members of the Division Leadership Team make the final selections, and winners are honored at televised School Board meetings where they are presented with a specially designed certificate and a bag of DOVE candies. The DOVE Customer Service winner is also featured in the local newspaper and the division's internal newsletter.

Superintendent: Dr. Linda M. Shifflette Contact: Ann Stephens-Cherry, Executive Director of Public Relations 757-727-2011

27 After-School Club Harrisonburg City Public Schools

The Harrisonburg City Public Schools is offering after-school programs at 5 of its schools. Each after-school program will be staffed by an After-School Coordinator as well as certified and non-certified teaching staff. The programs will also be supported by local college students pursuing an education career. A ratio of 15 students to 1 certified staff member is desired. Depending upon the activity, the ratio may be higher. College students will be paired with certified staff members. Each school’s program will run for approximately 2 hours per day. The programs will begin as soon as school has been dismissed. The After- School programs are offered to all Harrisonburg City Public School students at no cost. Transportation is not provided at this time. Each student receives a healthy snack during the program. The programs all contain a remediation component in the form of a homework help sessions as well as sessions tailored to specific subjects (English, Mathematics, etc.). Each program has been tailored to meet the needs of each schools community. Some of the programs offered include: Rocketry, Fitness, Dance, Literature, Ecology, Art, Sign Language, Science, Robotics, Mentorship, Cooperation and Crafts. Enrollment in these programs has been phenomenal. Currently many of our After-School Programs serve over 100 students from K-5 on a daily basis.

Superintendent: Dr. Scott Kizner Contact: Craig D. Mackail, MsEd, Director of Operations and Community Outreach 540-434-9916 or [email protected]

Harrisonburg City Schools Welcome Center Harrisonburg City Public Schools

The Welcome Center was opened in February of 2004 as an Intake Center for HCPS’s LEP population to serve the purpose of providing a central place for our LEP families to register, receive an orientation to our school system, help to schedule required doctor appointments, provide address verification, and do initial screening in oral proficiency, reading and math placement both in English and in Spanish if necessary. Since that beginning, the Welcome Center now registers all students that are new to HCPS. The Welcome Center does both the initial interview and the registration for our preschool programs beginning in January in addition to registering and assessing all upcoming kindergartners through June. This has double our numbers for both preschool and kindergarten enrollment before the beginning of school. It has given a venue to provide school orientation and literacy packets of readiness material to parents to work with their children at home. The Welcome Center has streamlined our data collection of student information to be consistent throughout the city and alleviated much waiting and hassle in the front offices of each of the schools. Parents set appointments for their registration so that the necessary interpreters are there to help guide the family through the process. An appointment is then set with individual schools for their tour and orientation by the home school liaison and the ESL specialist at the school they will attend. For LEP students the required state placement test is given (WAPT) if the students do not have an up to date ACCESS test along with any other assessments requested by the schools. This makes for a nice transition and placement for the student when they arrive at their assigned school for the first day. The students are placed in a setting that they can be engaged and function at a level appropriate for their educational growth.

Superintendent: Dr. Scott Kizner Contact: Wanda Hamilton, ESL/Language Arts Supervisor 540-437-3305

28 Spotswood Elementary Harrisonburg City Public Schools

Spotswood Elementary School is partnering with Dr. Trevor Stokes, professor at James Madison University and Dr. Karen Budd, professor at DePaul University to research early interventions in behavior problems of preschool-aged children. Dr. Stokes is the Director of the Alvin V. Baird Attention and Learn- ing Disabilities Center at JMU. Teacher-Child Interaction Training (TCIT) is being provided to two preschool teachers at Spots- wood over the course of the spring, 2011 semester. This training has been adapted from Eyberg’s Parent- Child Interaction Therapy model (PCIT). Skills are introduced through workshop sessions, followed by several coaching sessions with the individual teachers in the classroom to ensure application of the skills in everyday classroom routines. The goal of this action research is to increase the teacher’s skill set for en- hancing children’s social-emotional adjustment and decreasing problem behaviors in the classroom.

Superintendent: Dr. Scott Kizner Contact: Ann Conners, Principal, 540-434-3429

Advance College Academy Henrico County Public Schools

The Advance College Academy is a concurrent enrollment program with J. Sargeant Reynolds Com- munity College that allows students to earn an Associate of Science in Social Science degree in addition to a high school diploma. By the time these students graduate, they will have earned 61 college credits and could transfer to many of Virginia’s public and private colleges and universities. The goal of the program is to prepare students for further education. During challenging economic times, this program allows students to earn 61 college credits at no cost to the parents or the students. En- rolled students take advanced high school courses during their freshman and sophomore years. They then begin college-level courses during the summer prior to their junior year. The program is the first of its kind in Virginia and offers students a rigorous but rewarding curriculum.

Superintendent: Dr. Patrick Russo Contact: Mychael Dickerson, 804-652-3724

Aspiring Leader Succession Center Henrico County Public Schools

The center’s goal is to generate an ongoing pool of highly qualified leaders to assume school leadership roles. “Associate” principal positions will be established in each secondary school and in 15 elementary schools. These positions are administrative training positions, and it is intended that associate principals will be prepared to assume future leadership roles by undergoing a comprehensive set of work experiences similar to those of principals. Aspirants for these positions must complete succession center activities, including a 360-assessment survey, role-play activities, emergency response scenarios, writing samples, classroom observation assessments, and meeting facilitation skills. The center will then provide a summary of the candidate’s leadership potential and skill profile. The program’s expectation is that associate principals will successfully interview for principal positions within three to five years of the time appointed as an associate. Those who fail to demonstrate prepar- edness will be reassigned.

Superintendent: Dr. Patrick Russo Contact: Mychael Dickerson, 804-652-3724

29 Learning Leaders Initiative Henrico County Public Schools

Through a partnership with the Community Training and Technical Assistance Center and the receipt of a Teacher Incentive Fund Grant, Henrico County Schools is piloting a performance-based staff development and differentiated compensation plan. The initiative will provide teachers and principals in the county’s highest-need schools with incentive pay tied directly to effective and engaging classroom instruction leading to growth in student achievement. The goals for the initiative are to:  Build teacher and principal capacity to increase student achievement by aligning and improving implementation of teaching standards to ensure effective and engaging teaching.  Retain a community of high-performing educators in typically hard-to-staff schools to drive academic achievement.  Develop the school division’s capacity to implement and evaluate a performance-based compensation system. Eight schools serving 5,725 students will participate in the initiative, and 323 teachers as well as cer- tain principals and assistant principals are eligible to participate.

Superintendent: Dr. Patrick Russo Contact: Mychael Dickerson 804-652-3724

Arts Alive! Henry County Public Schools

Henry County Public Schools developed a program, Arts Alive!, to celebrate visual and performing arts. This performance showcased the school division’s fine arts programs at all grade levels including: fine arts, graphic design, instrumental, vocal, drama, dance, and martial arts. Close to 400 students in preschool through twelfth grade and over 100 staff members participated in Arts Alive! Ways to participate included an art exhibit, student choral ensemble, staff choral ensemble, student and staff instrumental ensemble, and individual student and staff performances. The finale was a group performance including all participants. Also included was a community partnership exhibit prior to the performance. Over ten community partners celebrated their contributions to the visual and performing arts. During the performance, several community partnerships and alumni were formally recognized by the Superintendent. Arts Alive! celebrated and showcased the talents of students, staff, and alumni for over 1,300 in attendance.

Superintendent: Dr. Anthony Jackson Contact: Melany R. Stowe, Communication Coordinator 276-634-4766 or [email protected]

30 Challenge 24 Tournament Hopewell City Public Schools

The Challenge 24 Tournament is held in Hopewell City Public Schools each spring. Approximately 130 third through eighth graders participate in the competition. In this mental math game, students develop equations with solutions of 24 using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Speed is a factor. Play progresses from one- to two-digit numbers. Students practice basic facts with enthusiasm as they prepare to engage in the annual Tournament. The event occurs on an early release day, with students throughout the city bused to one location. There is much parental support with endeavors such as the registration process, refreshments, and the direction of students to their competition rooms. About 25 teachers volunteer their time to serve as judges in the Tournament. This annual event, complete with “24” tee shirts for all and trophies for winning students, has been Hopewell tradition for 12 years. Suntex International provides the tournament rules and organizes a state level event as well.

Superintendent: Dr. Winston Odom Contact: Rosemarie Bland, Lead Math Teacher 804-541-6404 or [email protected]

Having Fun Learning! King William County Public Schools

Students in King William County Public Schools (KWCPS) are having fun using LEGOS through a discovery-based, hands-on, collaborative approach to learning while developing skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as language and literacy. The MathScience Innovation Center (MSiC), in Richmond, has been instrumental in helping students develop STEM skills by providing teacher workshops and by being a resource when needed. Teachers are busy implementing lessons and activities with students that build on STEM skills at each school as follows:  Cool Spring Primary School students use LEGO materials, including motors and battery packs, to build models. Students create their own or use pictures to help them construct models before bringing them to life.  Acquinton Elementary School students use robotic kits, containing motors and sensors, to construct and program LEGO models.  Hamilton Holmes Middle School students, through an elective course, design, construct, program, and test robots and robotic situations using software and construction tools. Students at each school also use their STEM skills to participate in Junior First Lego League (JFLL) or First Lego League (FLL) annually. Students are having fun learning with LEGOS!

Superintendent: Dr. Mark Jones Contact: Dr. Mark Jones, 804-769-3434

31 King William Schools Participate in CLC Grant King William County Public Schools

In the Spring of 2009, King William High School and Hamilton-Holmes Middle School were awarded the Content Literacy Continuum (CLC) Grant by the Virginia Department of Education. The Stra- tegic Instruction Model (SIM) Content Literacy Continuum (CLC) focuses on helping secondary schools develop and sustain comprehensive and integrated literacy programs. SIM consists of a variety of research- based interventions that focus on helping teachers think about, adapt, and present critical content in a "learner-friendly" manner. Students in grades 5-11 participate in SRI testing. SRI is an interactive reading comprehension test that provides an assessment of student reading levels, reported in Lexile measures. The Lexile Framework is a system that matches readers to text. SRI allows King William County Public Schools to track student literacy skills, monitor students´ reading progress, establish attainable goals, encourage accountability, and gauge the effectiveness of reading programs. In addition, it provides more information for teachers to enhance planning for instruction. To learn more about this initiative, please visit the University of Kansas Center for Research on Learning website at http://kucrl.org or http://virginia.kucrl.org.

Superintendent: Dr. Mark Jones Contact: Dr. Mark Jones, 804-769-3434

Clubhouse Loudoun County Public Schools

During the 2005-06 school year, Dominion High School implemented a student advisory period that has led to a 75 percent reduction in failing grades over the past five school years. This strategy for school improvement was built upon the premise that each and every student would benefit from experiencing a “home field advantage”, by engaging every staff member as an advocate for student success. The entire student body is divided into heterogeneous groups of 13, led by an adult mentor, who works with a cohort of students throughout their four-year high school experience. Students meet with their advocates twice per week for 20 minutes. The Clubhouse curriculum consists of three strands, a focus on personal goal-setting, silent sustained reading (SSR), and character development. To facilitate ease of implementation, a specific lesson plan is developed for each session of Clubhouse, including anticipatory sets, specific objectives, structured learning strategies, and closure activities.

Superintendent: Dr. Edgar B. Hatrick Contacts: 571-434-4400 Dr. John Brewer, Principal, [email protected] Ms. Jamie Braxton, Assistant Principal, [email protected] Ms. Michelle Quirin, Assistant Principal , [email protected]

32 Steuart Weller Showcase for Success Loudoun County Public Schools

International Collaboration through Technology is a program that allows our elementary students and teachers to extend their audience to schools and experts from around the world. It is exciting to see students motivated to learn, as they participate in global book clubs, writing leagues, competitions, and presentations of projects. One such venture is our partnership with National Geographic. Through their team of scientists we learn about endangered wild cats, and also collaborate with an elementary school in Tanzania, raising awareness about loss of habitat. Our many partnerships culminated last year with three student and educator visits from Pakistan and Singapore, who visited us to learn about our approaches to international partnerships. Method used in bringing about demonstrated improvements in learning. We extend our lessons with videoconferences and blog, email, and forum entries. Having synchronous and asynchronous connections with partner classrooms and scientists allows our students to construct messages that are thoughtful, creative, and informative.

Superintendent: Dr. Edgar B. Hatrick Contact: Janet Platenberg, Principal 571-252-2360

John W. Tolbert Jr. Elementary Loudoun County Public Schools

J.W. Tolbert, Jr. Elementary utilizes the Response to Intervention framework to increase student achievement in grades kindergarten through fifth in the areas of reading and mathematics. Tolbert was chosen by the VDOE as one of fifteen pilot schools in the state to receive training and implement the RtI framework. This framework requires school to utilize universal screening of all students three times per year, establish an effective core instructional program, employ research validated strategic and intensive interventions for identified students, collect data frequently, review the data within data teams, and change instructional interventions when data shows them to be ineffective. Now in our third year of intervention, Tolbert has worked with the central office personnel to personalize this program for LCPS under the name of Re- sponsive Instruction and to grow the program into eight elementary schools. This program impacts every student and engages every teacher. After our second year of implementation in reading we made AYP where we had not previously. We look forward to continued success!

Superintendent: Dr. Edgar B. Hatrick Contact: Elaine Layman [email protected] or 571-252-2870

33 The Writing Center at Louisa County High School Louisa County Public Schools

Louisa County High School opened the Writing Center in January of 2011, and it has been an immediate success, with an average of 11 tutoring sessions occurring daily by the end of its first month of operation. Twenty-one juniors and seniors have been educated in the theory and practice of assisting their peers by guiding, prompting, and conversing, rather than merely correcting. They are on hand before, during, and after the school day to work one-on-one with their "clients," who range from ninth graders writing at an early elementary level to twelfth graders enrolled in dual-enrollment classes. When they visit the Writing Center, students are able to receive personalized help from tutors; they benefit from immediate feedback and guidance, which motivates them to spend more time and effort on their assignments. The tutors are able to help students with any kind of writing, from research papers to scholarship applications to lab reports, as well as any phase of the writing process, from brainstorming and planning to researching and revising. Stu- dents can make individual appointments, and teachers can also reserve tutors to work with an entire class simultaneously. The center was founded and is directed by Hannah Baran, who also teaches eleventh grade English at Louisa County High School.

Superintendent: Dr. Deborah D. Pettit Contact: Jaclyn O’Laughlin, Public Information Specialist 540-894-5115

The Netbook One-to-One Initiative at Louisa County Middle School Louisa County Public Schools

The Netbook One-to-One Initiative was started at Louisa County Middle School at the beginning of the 2010-2011 school year. The program targets sixth grade at-risk students, who are either from a lower socioeconomic status, a black male, or taking special education classes. The goal of the initiative is for students to use computers as an instructional aid to help them with their academic learning, attendance, discipline, focus, and participation in class. The program is being piloted in collaborative classrooms, where teachers use a variety of Internet sites including Google and Google Docs for their lessons. This is the first year of a three year plan. The plan is to continue the initiative by adding netbooks to each grade over the next two years. The program has already been successful. The students in the netbook classes are showing improvement in all areas.

Superintendent: Dr. Deborah D. Pettit Contact: Jaclyn O’Laughlin, Public Information Specialist 540-894-5115

34 Sandusky Elementary Resource Mentoring Team Lynchburg City Public Schools

Sandusky Elementary resource teachers began a mentoring program to assist low performing fourth and fifth graders during the 2009-2010 school year. The resource team includes the art, music, movement education teachers, and the instructional technology specialist, librarian and guidance counselor. The mentors believe that their primary responsibility is to establish a personal relationship with the students and, in turn, support their core content colleagues. Typical strategies used by the resource teachers include meeting with students three days a week, setting goals, using guided reading strategies, collecting and using data, supervising Accelerated Reading test, teaching test taking skills, providing encouragement and using incentives such as ipod touch, Wii and going to a movie. Thus far, 100% of the students who work with the resource mentoring team have had an increase in their Reading SOL scores.

Superintendent: Dr. Paul Mckendrick Contacts: Barbara Wickham, Principal 434-582-1111 BJ Thomas, Librarian 434-582-1111

The Sandusky Seven Lynchburg City Public Schools

In an effort to guide students in achieving their fullest potential, Sandusky Elementary School has implemented “The Sandusky Seven” this 2010-2011 school year. Our school has worked together to create seven guidelines that showcase excellence and encourage respect for everyone in and out of the classroom. We as educators are trying to expose children to ways to handle life’s situations and guide them in making choices that show consideration and respect for others. While trying to guide children in making the considerate choice, we are also encouraging teamwork. We have devised character based teams within our school in an effort to encourage each other to work our hardest and attain our full potential as individuals. As our mission states, our goal is to work cooperatively to develop a child into a responsible, productive and successful student. We feel that the Sandusky Seven will assist in the development of a whole child who is respectful, kind and cooperative in all situations in life.

Superintendent: Dr. Paul Mckendrick Contacts: Barbara Wickham, Principal 434-582-1111 Kerri Doremus, 1st Grade Teacher 434-582-1111

35 TEAM Lynchburg City Public Schools

Linkhorne Middle School operates a 21st Century Community Learning Center entitled TEAM. TEAM is an afterschool learning center targeting youth who would benefit from wraparound services in reading and math, character education, and provide enrichment opportunities. At the end of the three year grant period, the expectation from the Virginia Department of Education is to show that 75% of participating students obtain a “C” or higher in reading and 50% of students obtain a “C” or higher in mathematics. Dur- ing the first year, LMS served 100 students and was able to boast 82% of students improving to a “C” or better in reading and 73% of students improving to a “C” or better in mathematics! Our secret? Understanding that it takes a village and coupling true caring with individual tutoring and clear objectives. Students participated in an on-site partnership with Lynchburg Parks and Recreation department bringing Nature Zone and the Arts Program to LMS as well as off-site enrichment activities like building a “Little Habitat for Humanity” home and 12 hour overnight read-a-thon in Amazement Square, Legacy Museum, Glass Theatre’s production of Music Man, and two overnight trips to Virginia Beach and Richmond inclusive of visits to VA Science Museum, Colonial Williamsburg, and Dave and Busters for Menu Math!

Superintendent: Dr. Paul Mckendrick Contact: Kenya Turner, 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Coordinator 434-384-5150

Manassas Park Professional Development Initiative Manassas Park City Schools

Manassas Park City Schools is implementing an exciting professional development initiative focus- ing on literacy teaching and learning. The elementary literacy coach and school reading specialists are jointly developing and presenting topical information to faculty and staff. Sessions are followed by individual lesson planning and in-class coaching. Topics include writing program guidelines and tips, guided reading, understanding literacy assessments and data, and using leveled non-fiction texts. Presentations incorporate teachers’ input through discussion, work sample analysis, and hands-on activities. Information is placed in an electronic folder for all teachers to access and review. These presentations have created shared vocabulary and knowledge about specific literacy practices. Teachers and administrators have enthusiastically received and responded to these relevant, needs-based, job-embedded professional development experiences.

Superintendent: Dr. C. Bruce McDade Contact: Virginia Bowerman, Director of Literacy, Federal Programs, & ESL 703-335-1393 ext. 15003

36 “Differentiation” Manassas Park City Schools

Manassas Park City Schools is in the second year of implementing a “Differentiation” professional development project for a cohort of K-12 teachers and administrators. A goal of this initiative is to develop “Differentiation Coaches” to inculcate these practices in every school. Using a workshop format, Kay Brimijoin, an expert on Differentiation, has presented knowledge, skills, and practices for effective differentiated lessons. Ms. Brimijoin collaboratively plans lessons with teachers based on students’ skills, interests, and learning styles. Lesson planning is followed by in-class observation and feedback discussions. This format provides “right-there” support and expertise as needed, thus teachers can make adjustments for better instruction and student engagement. At the end of this school year, Dr. Brimijoin will assist the cohort in planning professional development for faculty and in coaching their colleagues. Teachers have enthusiastically embraced these learning opportunities. To sustain this initiative, a second cohort is planned for the coming school year.

Superintendent: Dr. C. Bruce McDade Contact: Virginia Bowerman, Director of Literacy, Federal Programs, & ESL 703 335-1393 ext. 15003

Lee-Jackson Elementary School Mathews County Public Schools

The Instructional Consultation Team’s (ICT) goal is to “enhance, improve, and increase student and staff performance.” Membership of this team requires teammates to take on additional responsibilities as a case manager, who problem solves with other teachers in the building. It also teaches its members the importance of using data to make decisions. As a result of being a member of ICT, a teacher improves their teacher toolbox and becomes aware and able to implement any number of research-based strategies to improve student achievement. Teachers ultimately incorporate the tenets into their own teaching philosophy. Through the problem solving process, embedded professional development occurs in the areas of assessment, instruction and collaboration. Over time, the IC Team breeds a culture that builds on problem solving and strengths. Lee-Jackson Elementary School adopted the ICT program in 2000, which provides instructional support to teachers and ensures that optimal student learning occurs within the classroom setting. ICT results in a decrease of unnecessary special education referrals and consequently, financial savings for the division. Of those ICT cases referred for a full evaluation at Lee-Jackson, 100% have been found eligible for services in the last three years.

Superintendent: Dr. Dave Holleran Contact: Mr. Andrew Greve, 804-725-2580

37 Thrifty Spot at Mathews High School Mathews County Public Schools

In order to fulfill the mission of Mathews High School to encourage, enlighten, and empower all students, the Special Education Department has embarked on an ambitious challenge by opening a thrift store (Thrifty Spot) for students with special needs. The Thrifty Spot is a collaborative effort between the school and community to provide vocational training for our students while providing a service to the community. The Thrifty Spot will sell almost-new clothing, house wares, small furniture, books, and student- created crafts. The shop will be open to the public during school hours and will provide students with retail skills and serve as a transition-to-work program. Some specific components of the program are as follows:  Students will complete Special Diplomas requirements at Mathews High through their work in the Thrifty Spot.  Students eligible for the program will between the ages of 16-22.  Students will improve math, technology, daily living, social, and communication skills.  Students will demonstrate appropriate work habits and behaviors.  The location is approximately 1.5 miles from Mathews High School in Hudgins, Virginia.  Proceeds from sales will help pay for rent and electricity.  All items for sale are from community donations.  Hours of Operation are 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Monday – Friday.

Superintendent: Dr. Dave Holleran Contact: Mrs. Cathy Walker, 804-725-3702

MATH MATTERS Mathews County Public Schools

Over the last few years, our Math SOL scores have shown improvement, but our math teachers felt that we needed to do something additionally to help impact our scores to a greater degree. This year we decided to adopt a school wide theme centered on math, called “Math Matters”. We have placed two large ban- ners in the halls and our math staff is busy impacting students across all grade levels with math facts. The math teachers hold a “Family Math Night” each quarter to involve parents in math activity games, showing them the types of things their sons & daughters are involved in; they have posted “Prove It” signs in all the classrooms and throughout the school, reminding all students that they have to be able to explain the process of how they achieve their solutions; all teachers have involved their students in timed math fact activities throughout the entire first quarter; this quarter all students have been exposed to “Math Vocabulary” specific to their grade level. During second semester math teachers will identify the “Bubble Group” at each grade level and community volunteers will be utilized to aide in the student’s remediation; the math staff will also be holding grade level challenges/twisters with incentives offered to the winners. Math teachers continue to give “Major Quizzes” that are tied to specific SOL’s and use SOL specific vocabulary; they continue to give quarterly “Benchmarks” that are SOL specific and they work with math students that require remediation, on a daily basis during “Smart Block”. It is our hope that this school wide incentive will help the “Math Literacy” problem we see with many students today. We also believe that the hard work on behalf of our students and teachers will pay huge dividends this spring when we take our SOL’s.

Superintendent: Dr. Dave Holleran Contact Person: Mr. Mike Comer, Principal [email protected] 804-725-2434

38 Backpack Buddies of Middlesex County Middlesex County Public Schools

When Dave and Lynda Cryer of Middlesex County first met with Middlesex County school officials about a backpack buddy program, none of them could imagine the impact this simple program would have not only with the elementary students it would serve, but on the community as a whole. Backpack Buddies is a program designed to provide food on the weekends to students who may not have enough at home. Students receive a backpack each Friday filled with breakfast, lunch, and dinner to get them through the weekend. While there are many versions of this program throughout the country, the uniqueness of this program is that it is privately funded through donations from community members. Food is then purchased from the Central Virginia Food Bank and volunteers come and pack the backpacks each week for distribution to the elementary school on Friday. This program, while physically filling the students, has emotionally filled its many volunteers and school personnel who participate with it.

Superintendent: Dr. Donald Fairheart Contact: Mrs. Jeannie Duke, Principal of Middlesex Elementary School [email protected] or 804-758-2496

Middlesex Elementary School After-School Enrichment Program Middlesex County Public Schools

The after-school enrichment program at Middlesex Elementary School began in May of 2010 as a way to gauge student and parent interest in activities and programs that would help develop the whole child. Under the direction of teacher Samantha Rozakis, the enrichment program has grown leaps and bounds in the 2010-2011 school year. Currently, 240 students are participation in the program, which rotates monthly so students can participate in a variety of activities. The program is completely run by volunteers, most of which are teachers, and does not cost the student anything. The school system provides transportation home for the students who participate. The following clubs have been offered this year: Tumbling, Stitchery, Pup- pet Theater, Sports & Fitness, Photography, Art, Music, Games, Dance, Baton Twirling, Black History, How to Be an Author, Crafts, Cooking, Computer, and Drama. While after-school enrichment programs are not unique, this is the first time this type of program has been implemented in Middlesex County. The number of student participants, the volunteers, and the pas- sion of everyone involved in this program, speaks volumes about its uniqueness in this small rural school division!

Superintendent: Dr. Donald Fairheart Contact: Dr. Donald Fairheart 804-758-2277

39 Action-based Learning Montgomery County Public Schools

Montgomery County Public Schools are implementing an action-based learning program to boost student achievement in several PK-5 classrooms and as a lab-based intervention for our youngest struggling readers. The program is grounded in brain research and educational neurokinesiology principles found to connect physical activity and learning. Our activities are shared through a wiki platform. In the classroom, teachers have learned activities that get students moving as they are learning about reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies curriculum. Some activities are geared for the entire class, such as rhythmic singing with hand motions, and other activities are designed for individuals in classroom centers. In the gym, PK-2 students who are reading below the benchmark are participating in a series of sta- tions and progressions from Blaydes-Madigan’s Action-based Learning Labs. Building on this foundation of activities, teachers have developed additional games and challenges that involve gross motor actions that cross the midline of the body. The labs take place 2-3 times per week before school.

Superintendent: Dr. Brenda B. Blackburn Contact: Patricia A. Gaudreau Supervisor of Science, Health, Physical, and Driver Education 540-381-6536

Project Opportunity Nelson County Public Schools Rockfish River Elementary School has successfully implemented a new program called Project Op- portunity. This program focuses on hands-on projects using math and reading skills for 3rd – 5th grade students. The students meet two days a week after school for six weeks. The students work in small groups with a teacher and a community volunteer in areas such as woodworking, engineering, cooking, sports, or art. For example, in woodworking class the students built a picnic table, in an engineering class they con- structed a bridge, and in art class they learned the art of cartooning. These projects have helped the students develop an enthusiasm for learning. The hands-on work has helped strengthen their math and reading skills and their confidence. The program has also created a way to include the community in the learning process.

Superintendent: Dr. Roger Collins Contact: Ms. Kim Candler, Assistant Principal, 434-361-1791

School-Wide Reading Project Nelson County Public Schools The students and faculty at Nelson County Middle School held their first annual school-wide reading venture in February. All 444 students and 50 staff members read the book, Schooled, by Gordon Korman. For the first 40 minutes each morning for ten days, everyone read the novel and participated in follow up and discussion activities. The story focuses on a boy who attends public school for the first time and it examines the challenges he faces while he adjusts to his new life. Thanks to a grant from the Nelson County Educational Foundation, funding was made available for 500 copies of the book. This venture has not only brought everyone together to appreciate the joy of reading, but it has created opportunities for discussing the issue of bullying. This project also supports the new Olweus Bullying Program the middle school has recently implemented.

Superintendent: Dr. Roger Collins Contact: Mr. Jody Ray, Principal, 434-263-4801

40 Collaborating with Students in India Nelson County Public Schools

Students from Nelson County High School have been collaborating on a joint project with students from the Mira Model School in New Delhi, India. The NCHS students are part of the Nelson Achievers computer lab classroom. Both schools have been reviewing the rights of citizens of their respective coun- tries. They both post their findings to a shared webpage and evaluate each other’s postings. When they conclude this project, they plan a video conference so they can meet each other and discuss their findings. This project not only allows the students to make effective use of 21st century technology skills; it also allows the students to learn the importance of teamwork, develop problem-solving skills, and learn to respect the different cultures in the world around us.

Superintendent: Dr. Roger Collins Contact: Mr. Roger Dunnick, Assistant Principal, 434-263-8317

Citizenship E-Portfolio and Board Game Newport News City Public Schools

This initiative connects youth development, citizenship and Web 2.0 tools in order to change and challenge the culture school wide. Students are responsible for maintaining a website that highlights monthly citizenship projects, using their curriculum objectives and Web 2.0 tools to create, capture and document all activities. This enhanced and creative citizenship experience has led to the creation of a board game that provides a self-analysis of behavior; increased usage of computer equipment by student led citizenship projects; rigorous planning for teachers that infuses curriculum with a citizenship and technology base; and increased cohesiveness of a diversely student population. The development of the student led website will be highlighted at the school division’s Technology Conference in April and the board game will contain projects and think tank possibilities for student-led citizenship and service projects.

Superintendent: Dr. Ashby Kilgore Contact: John T. Tupponce, Principal [email protected] or 757-886-7750

Connected through Clubs Newport News City Public Schools

The Agenda for Public Education in Newport News is to produce College, Career and Citizen- Ready graduates. The “Connected through Clubs” initiative connects students to school in a unique way so that they want to learn about and practice citizenship in a school setting. This initiative has developed 23 clubs for students to choose from, including sign language, ballet, tennis, drum line, karate, modeling, and more. Clubs develop their own service-learning project to show how they can give back to the community, the city, and/or state. The students then display their “work” by host- ing a Club Showcase in which parents, community members and school employees walk through a “gallery” of pictures from the service projects and to hear students discuss the impact the club has made. Our students have begun to understand the words spoken by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: “We all can be great because we all can serve.”

Superintendent: Dr. Ashby Kilgore Contact: Terri L. Best [email protected] or 757-928-6827

41 21st Century Library Newport News City Public Schools

At the Richneck Library Media Center, students study award-winning books and reference materials and share reviews via a blog. In the primary grades, students and staff talk about books, book parts, and types of books as well as evaluate picture books and vote for favorite books. All grade levels have the opportunity to conduct research twice a year using the inquiry process. As students research in the library, they read, evaluate sources, discuss topics, work cooperatively, and create a variety of projects. Together, we have conducted videoconferences with other schools across the country, created Photostories and Powerpoint presentations, videotaped oral presentations, and worked with Glogster. The media center opens before school daily to allow students to visit before classes begin. Our goal is to make the library the center of our school where both teachers and students come together to find the information and the assistance they need.

Superintendent: Dr. Ashby Kilgore Contact: Deb Eggers, Media Specialist [email protected] or 757-886-7722

iPads Supporting Elementary Classroom Instruction Nottoway County Public Schools

Students of today are more in tune with technology tools than just five years ago. To help address this change in how students learn, Nottoway County Public Schools has employed the use of iPads in the classroom to support daily instructional activities. iPads are issued to teachers to support and extend the classroom curriculum. Teachers have been trained using the train-the-trainer model. They have learned how to effectively search for educational iPad “apps” which serve as tools in the classroom to supplement instruction. Most of the apps used by our students and teachers are “FREE” apps or have a very low cost. The iPads have been beneficial to our students in various ways. They are used by the teacher for whole group instruction to teach new concepts, review and remediate. They are used in small group instruction to target specific skills. They are used in student pairs to facilitate cooperative learning. They are used by individual students for remediation or to present a skill in a different format to address various learning styles. The top 10 apps in the elementary classroom: Podcasts on a variety of topics (VA Trekkers, Math Skills); Starfall (letters and letter sounds); Super Why (letters, sounds); Build a Word (letter and word identi- fication); iReading (read aloud stories); Chicktionary (making words); Montessori Crossword (spelling); Letter Quiz (letter recognition); ABC Phonics (sounds, spelling, word families); Life Cycles (science).

Superintendent: Dr. Daniel Grounard Contacts: Alexa McMillian, K Teacher 434-767-5236 Jennifer Nelson, Reading Teacher 434-767-5236

42 High School Activity Block Nottoway County Public Schools

Nottoway High School instituted a new bell schedule for the 2010-11 school year which includes an activity block during the middle of the school day. The purpose of this time is to allow teachers and students to build relationships and to conduct various activities without interrupting instructional time. Activity blocks are scheduled by grade level based on homeroom assignments. Teachers will have the same activity block students for all four years of the student high school career thus allowing students to build better relationships with their students. There has been an overwhelming positive response to the new activity block. The time allows teachers to get acquainted with students and establish relationships with them in a setting where performance is not graded and informal classroom discussions can occur. The activity block teachers see each student’s report cards and they are able to monitor student progress and to advise students who are experiencing difficulty. Students can use the time to study, make up missed work, or complete homework. Students having difficulty in a subject can seek help from their peers or teachers. They also use the time to visit school support services, including the nurse, library and guidance. Students can also enjoy “down time” to socialize and unwind, which helps with classroom discipline later in the day. The school store is open during this time for students to purchase school supplies and snacks. Club activities have also increased this year, with new school clubs forming as a result of the extra time provided to meet during the day.

Superintendent: Dr. Daniel Grounard Contact: Anne Stinson, Principal, 434-292-5373

Communities and Schools Working Together to “Go Green” Nottoway County Public Schools

Over the last two years, the Nottoway Intermediate School gifted and talented students and Not- toway High School Ecology students have worked together to promote recycling in our schools and community. The schools were collectively awarded a Learn and Serve grant which has allowed the school to promote recycling, build containers, and process cardboard, plastic bottles and cans, and paper. Through the grant, our students have collaborated to make great strides in encouraging individuals to recycle. Students have taught their peers, siblings, parents, family and community members about the benefits and importance of recycling. Over the summer, the Virginia Center for Behavioral Rehabilitation joined in the recycling efforts through a partnership that benefits the school as well as the center. The school now handles the first steps of processing recyclables and the center handles the final processing steps. Through the use of student created flyers and short video clips, residents of VCBR are trained how to properly “process” items. These processed items earn money for the facility which is used to allow residents to purchase various items. The school system in turn saves on trash/landfill fees. The schools’ efforts have continued to grow with community support. The Town of Blackstone employees have been educated by our students and are now collecting cans, plastic and some paper for the schools to recycle. The Town of Blackstone also allowed our students to create a “Recycled” themed deco- rated holiday house in the local Seay Park. Our ecology students and gifted students worked together to create ornaments and decorations made of recycled items. During the Grand Illumination in the park, students handed out ornaments made of recycled items and informational flyers to attendees. The recycling efforts continue to grow. We have processed over 1600 kgs of recycle items. Through our efforts, more individuals’ minds are changed about the impact of recycling. By beginning our efforts with our students, we have been able to spread the importance of “going green” to more individuals in the community.

Superintendent: Dr. Daniel Grounard Contacts: Marcia Martin, Gifted Teacher, 434-292-5353 Nicky Cogar, Ecology Teacher, 434-292-5373

43 The Watch D.O.G.S. Program Page County Public Schools

The Watch D.O.G.S. program is a nationally recognized program that began in 1998 in Arkansas in response to an in school shooting. The concept was to introduce fathers and father figures into the female dominated school environment to help protect the students and staff from possible school violence. Today there are over 1600 participating schools in 38 states and New Zealand. The Watch D.O.G.S. program began in September, 2009 at Shenandoah Elementary. The program is sponsored by the school and the PTA. In September 2009, SES had 320 students and was pleased to welcome almost 100 fathers and father figures to our kick off. In our second year of operation, we currently have 13 active volunteers. Our volunteers follow a schedule during the day that brings them in contact with children from each grade level from Pre-K to 5th grade. Our volunteers read to children, listen to children read, help with school projects, call out spelling words, open milk cartons and ketchup packets, and listen to children talk about their ball games and favorite movies. We have one volunteer who cannot come and stay all day, but stands at our back gate most morn- ings to give high fives and fist bumps to the arriving students. We also have a grandparent who has come 2 days a week since the fall of 2009. These Watch DOGS have become an important influence in our school and to the lives of our children.

Superintendent: Dr. Randall Thomas Contact: Dixie Davis, Principal, Shenandoah Elementary School 540-652-8621

CSI Program Page County Public Schools

Students at the middle school level need support and guidance as they develop into productive students and citizens. To help them become what they can be, all students at Luray Middle School participate in a personal advisory program referred to as CSI (Community, Skills, and Invigorating). During the 2010- 2011 school year, students participate in CSI for 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes in the afternoon. Each CSI group of 12 or less same grade level students has a designated faculty advisor that serves in this capacity for the school year. The designated faculty advisor plans activities that are designed to foster academic/personal growth and responsibility as well as to improve interpersonal relationships. Activities that have been used by teachers to accomplish these worthy goals include partnering with those from an advanced age facility, discussing weekend happenings, and engaging in tasks that build both self confidence and an understanding of others. Two of the defining correlates of an effective school, contributing to high levels of student learning, are High Expectations for Success and a Safe and Orderly Environment. The CSI program is judged to contribute to meeting these two correlates on an individual student level. High expectations for success are a frequent point of discussion for all students during the CSI periods. Discipline data has been compiled comparing student referrals from LMS for the 2009-2010 school year with referrals when students of the same grade level attended the elementary and high school during the 2008-2009 school year. Comparisons between the two years’ disciplinary records suggests discipline referrals decreased markedly (more than 10%) at the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade levels.

Superintendent: Dr. Randall Thomas Contact: Kelly M. Lawton, Principal, 540-843-2660

44 Garden Program at Springfield Elementary School Page County Public Schools

The Garden Program at Springfield Elementary School in Page County, incorporates hands on gar- dening activities with science, math, social studies, and language arts SOL for a cross curricular connection. We allow students to utilize knowledge of the environment and earth science in order to positively af- fect their school and community. Method used in bringing about demonstrated improvements in learning:  Teaching critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and cooperative group skills (all 21st Century skills);  Growing fresh vegetables for students/staff to eat in or with cafeteria lunches or snacks; Additionally, students will be able to prepare and taste a variety of foods that would otherwise not be part of a regular cafeteria menu;  Teaching students about sustainable agriculture (integrates three main goals: environmental stewardship, farm profitability, and prosperous farming communities)

Superintendent: Dr. Randall W. Thomas Contact: Teresa B. Day, Principal 540-743-3750

The Crooked Road Music Project Patrick County Public Schools

Last year the Patrick County Gifted Program partnered with the Reynolds Homestead to explore the students’ musical cultural heritage. Students in grades 5-12 interacted with the Crooked Road Exhibition, which featured roots musicians from the Appalachian Mountains and showed their influences and back- grounds. This information proved valuable in learning how history impacts the present. Students listened to local musicians, developed group projects, interviewed local musicians for a talk show, and performed a skit on the music of the past and present. Several students also made instruments. As a culminating activity, the group attended a music jamboree. The students were immersed in the music of the Crooked Road as they joined in the singing and dancing. This exploration enabled students to self-analyze the impact that music has on their lives. That jour- ney resulted in impressive projects that allowed the students to develop individual ways to express what they had learned.

Superintendent: Dr Roger Morris Contact: Anita Bailey, Language Arts Specialist [email protected]

45 Education 2020 – Credit Recovery and Accrual Program Petersburg City Public Schools

Petersburg City Public Schools (PCPS), in its commitment to student success has partnered with Education 2020 (E2020) to increase student achievement. PCPS has outlined the following goals and objectives for this partnership: PCPS will use E2020 to increase on-time graduation rates by 5% and the percentage of overage students and students lacking standard and verified credits will be reduced by 10%. Education 2020 is an industry-recognized national firm currently partnering with districts in 38 states. With E2020, Petersburg students receive appropriate, Virginia standards-aligned, rigorous academic instruction designed to meet credit requirements and build academic success in reading, language arts, writing, mathematics, science, social studies, and VA SOL and GED test prep. Each course delivers content through a dynamic technology platform. E2020 courses contain direct instruction videos by highly qualified teachers in each lesson. PCPS teachers are able to utilize the system to monitor student progress and evaluate student data to determine if appropriate instructional progress is being made. PCPS leadership makes data-driven program decisions based on these data from the E2020 system in conjunction with PCPS data.

Superintendent: Dr. Alvera J. Parrish Contact: John L. Mayo, Assistant Superintendent 804-862-7040, [email protected]

Parent Honor Roll Petersburg City Public Schools

In an effort to increase parental involvement at the school level, Petersburg City Public Schools has implemented a parent honor roll incentive program. Parents are able to accumulate points towards the parent honor roll by attending events at school, serving as chaperones for field trips, communicating with teachers regarding the progress of their child(ren) in specific classes, and volunteering at schools within the division, to name a few. Parents that accumulate the most points for each school are recognized during Peters- burg City School Board Meetings, at the conclusion of each nine weeks period.

Superintendent: Dr. Alvera J. Parrish Contact: Dr. Alvera J. Parrish 804-732-0510

Voyager Learning: Ticket To Read Petersburg City Public Schools

Ticket to Read is a fun online environment where students can practice reading skills and compete with students from around the world. The program provides remediation to improve literacy by building fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary in a self-paced, student-centered learning environment. Ticket to Read allows students the ability to practice important reading skills at school, home, or the library—anywhere they can access the Web. Our elementary schools proclaim this program to be one of the most innovative and attractive for students. The program engages students with a motivating reward system. Students earn tickets toward decorating their personal spaces within the program.

Superintendent: Dr. Alvera J. Parrish Contact: Norma Wingfield, Director of Elementary Instruction 804-862-7044, [email protected]

46 Project Search Portsmouth City Public Schools

Project Search is a part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Bay Watershed and Training Program (NOAA B-WET) grant with Norfolk’s Old Dominion University. SEARCH stands for Science Education Advancing Research of the Chesapeake Bay and Its Habitats. Rising sixth graders designed an 80-pound plus buoy, built it, and will launch it shortly in Scott’s Creek, a small tributary off the Elizabeth River. This partnership also provides professional development for the STEM teachers and equipment such as hand-held computers and digital microscopes. The buoy will collect tier one data that the students will share with NOAA. The data will also become part of the data pool for the Portsmouth Public School Division’s STEM program, known as ENIVORBASE Aquarius. This program is absolutely focused on the Elizabeth River watershed.

Superintendent: Dr. David Stuckwich Contact: Joseph L. Wiggins, Director of Communications 757-393-8217, extension 4156 or [email protected]

Summer Algebra Readiness Academy Portsmouth City Public Schools

Implemented in 2005, the Portsmouth Public School Division’s Algebra Readiness Academy is designed to support students who enroll in Algebra I while in middle school. The academy is an extension of the Virginia Department of Education’s Algebra Readiness Initiative, which is effectively implemented during the regular school year. The summer program consists of two three-week sessions. The program utilizes the services of four to five teachers and four to five tutors who serve from 160 to 200 students each summer. The required ten–to–one ratio is in place so that students receive individualized attention. Students attend class Monday through Thursday for five hours a day. To afford more students an opportunity to achieve success in completing Algebra I at the middle- school level, the program’s focus changed from targeting students who struggled in mathematics classes to those who showed promise for success in Algebra I. The summer program focuses on mathematics standards that students are not exposed to when they are not taking Mathematics 7 or Mathematics 8 before taking Algebra I. The academy utilizes a hands-on approach during the three-week sessions. Students work with manipulatives and computer programs to learn the standards.

Superintendent: Dr. David Stuckwich Contact: Joseph L. Wiggins, Director of Communications 757-393-8217, extension 4156 or [email protected]

47 Connect 2 Science and Technology Prince George County Public Schools

The goal of Connect 2 Science and Technology is to increase the academic achievement of 5th grade students in science at David A. Harrison and North Elementary schools. Connect 2 includes a professional development model for fourth and fifth grade teachers, science intervention services and Connect 2 Science and Technology (CST) enrichment program for fifth grade students. The professional development model consists of workshops, trainings, conferences and courses designed to increase teachers’ content knowledge, instructional and technology-based strategies for improving student achievement in science. Inquiry-based instruction and hands-on science are the focal points for the professional development model. An instructional coach will observe teachers and provide feedback. Science Interventionists will provide intervention services to military students based on a needs assessment. The CST, the after-school enrichment program, will involve students in inquiry-based learning and engagement through games, projects, simulations and hands-on activities.

Superintendent: Dr. Bobby Browder Contact: Renee Williams Assistant Superintendent Instructional Services 804-733-2700

Mentoring at Stonewall Middle School Prince William County Public Schools

“STEM” Education is an important focus in Prince William County Public Schools, and Stonewall Middle School has embraced the culture of preparing our students for a future in Science, Technology, Engi- neering, and Math by bringing in Lockheed Martin as a schoolwide partner. Employees from the local branch mentor students and take part in an after-school program; run a booth at the school’s open house; and present demonstrations to sixth-graders during National Engineering Week. Lockheed Martin also provides financial assistance in purchasing science equipment and both mentoring and financial support for the school’s robotics program. Perhaps most unique is the poster series that Lockheed Martin produced specifically for the school that depicts current employees using “everyday” theories learned in the classroom, such as the Pythagorean Theorem. The programs provided by Lockheed Martin interests students in their STEM lessons and helps them plan for a lucrative future here in their own community.

Superintendent: Dr. Steven L. Walts Contact: Sharon Henry, Supervisor, Office of Community & Business Engagement 703-791-8001 or [email protected]

48 Growing Partnership Programs Prince William County Public Schools

The strength and value of the partnerships between Prince William County Public Schools and the surrounding community continue to grow. The most noteworthy partnership is that between SPARK, the Education Foundation for Prince William County Public Schools, and the Prince William County School Board. SPARK’s efforts have more than tripled the amount of revenue being provided for school programs and initiatives over the last three years, with more than $1,300,000 going directly to support our students last school year. Other notable partnerships to emerge this year include PWCS’ participation in the SySTEMic Solu- tions program, a collaborative partnership bringing together universities, three local school divisions, and community partners to promote STEM education in our schools; and the award-winning partnership between Gravely Elementary School and the military crew of the USS Gravely, which provides students with the role models of excellence, perseverance, and motivation provided by the ship’s sailors through mentorship activities.

Superintendent: Dr. Steven L. Walts Contact: Sharon Henry, Supervisor, Office of Community and Business Engagement 703-791-8001 or [email protected]

Robotics Programs Provide Hands-On Learning Prince William County Public Schools

As a way to ignite our students’ interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, PWCS is integrating robotics into the curriculum at both the middle and high school levels. VEX robotics is currently offered in all 17 middle schools and SeaPerch, the underwater robotics program, is offered in all 12 of high schools. Our local business partners have helped PWCS expand its robotics by providing funding for expan- sion of after-school club offerings to include FIRST LEGO League in 38 elementary schools, VEX robotics in 22 middle and high schools, and FIRST robotics in three high schools. Donations of time, money, and resources from our business partners have allowed PWCS to double the program impact over the past two years. Ultimately, businesses realize they will benefit from a better prepared workforce and that providing hands-on learning is the way to go.

Superintendent: Dr. Steven L. Walts Contact: Sharon Henry, Supervisor, Office of Community and Business Engagement, 703-791-8001 or [email protected]

49 R3 Reading Initiative Richmond City Public Schools

The R3 Reading Initiative provides job embedded professional development in the area of reading in grades K-5. Richmond Public Schools recognizes the value of the tenants of Reading First and created a district-wide plan. Coaches work in grades K-5 with a strong focus on data analysis, research-based instructional practices, and job embedded professional development that leads to improved student achievement.

The Role of the Reading Coach:  Provide technical assistance in developing and refining a strong school-wide literacy plan  Coordinate the proper use and analysis of assessments  Ensure the use of data for instructional decisions and grouping students  Provide support for teachers by demonstrating effective instructional strategies, and facilitating professional learning communities  Assist with monitoring student progress and providing intervention strategies Monitor reading instruction and classroom environments

Superintendent: Dr. Yvonne W. Brandon Contact: Victoria S. Oakley, Chief Academic Officer 804-780-7727 or [email protected]

Project Destiny Richmond City Public Schools

The Project Destiny program at George Wythe High School was created at the start of the 2009- 2010 school year to reinforce the expectations of graduation for senior students deficient in academic and attendance areas. Through the collaborative efforts of school administrators and counselors, a spreadsheet was developed for the entire senior class identifying the courses needed to graduate, verified credits needed to graduate and the total number of verified credits and course credits each had earned. The senior class was divided into three groups and monitored by the three assistant principals and their assigned counselors. Stu- dents considered bordering on failing to meet graduation requirements received intense weekly monitoring (grades, discipline, and attendance), as well as individually-tailored counseling and prescriptive remediation. Students were continually offered strategies to help them resolve problems, communicate deficien- cies and improve academically. Academic learning strategies, decision making skills and encouragement were also provided to support students in their graduation goals. Students with extreme external circumstances were referred to the appropriate wraparound service to assist the student and, where necessary, their family. Students were able to see the relevance of mastering their high school academic studies in order to meet their postsecondary educational and/or career goals. As a result of Project Destiny, George Wythe High School was able to increase its graduation rate from 58% in the previous school year to 81% .

Superintendent: Dr. Yvonne W. Brandon Contact: Felicia Cosby, Communications Officer 804-780-7100

50 Dropout Prevention Initiative Richmond City Public Schools

In the fall of 2009, Richmond Public Schools launched the Dropout Prevention Initiative (DPI), a multi-tiered and comprehensive dropout prevention and recovery initiative designed to address the needs of potential dropouts, students who have dropped out and their families.

The elements of the program include:

A single point of entry for all students who have been recovered to ensure seamless reentry.

Individual Learning Plan (ILP), an online educational plan for students that helps pair students’ career goals with academic and career and technical courses need to accomplish their future interests.

Door-to-door canvassing efforts to recover dropouts supported by City officials and local universities.

Collaborations with higher education institutions, faith and community-based partners to provide mentors for students recovered as well as incentives.

An aggressive advertising/media campaign in partnership with television and radio media outlets to encourage student attendance.

Within six months, the district had recovered and re-engaged over 30 percent of identified students who had been disengaged from the system for a year or more.

Superintendent: Dr. Yvonne W. Brandon Contact: Felicia Cosby, Communications Officer, 804-780-7100

ROTEC 5-5-5 Program Roanoke City Public Schools

The 5-5-5 Program is a career exploration program designed to cultivate a career interest in fifth graders and motivate them to graduate from school. Fifth grade students participate in the free summer program each year. A group of nearly 200 Roanoke City Public School fifth graders explore five careers over a five day period. Each morning, students report to their chosen program area and become immersed in one of the five careers for the day. The program focuses on hands-on activities and the importance of getting a good education to succeed in any career. The students can chose from nine different career areas; Cosmetology, Web Design, Robotics, Culinary Arts, Medicine and Health Care, Fashion Design and Marketing, Automotive Technology and TV/Video Production. Both students and teachers enjoy the program and plans are under- way to expand the program offerings this year to include a variety of Fine Arts activities through the Taub- man Museum of Art. The 5-5-5 program is critical in motivating 5th graders to do well academically in their remaining school years by introducing them to careers that they find exciting and interesting.

Superintendent: Dr. Rita Bishop Contact: Tiffany Woods, Public Relations Director 540-853-2905

51 Noel C. Taylor Virtual Academy Roanoke City Public Schools

Noel C. Taylor serves a number of students who have been unsuccessful in traditional settings due to discipline problems that result in limited exposure to instruction. The Virtual Academy was developed as an alternative to traditional educational offerings. The major components of the Virtual Academy include an individual academic plan that outlines the pathway to graduation, along with opportunities to recover lost credits. Once the plan is developed, a teacher is assigned to provide the student with a minimum of ten hours a week of direct instruction. Scheduling for the direct instruction is flexible and may be adjusted as needed. Self-paced supplemental instruction is also available through Plato or Moodle internet based programs. The creation of the Virtual Academy has alleviated the amount and frequency of discipline referrals. The individualized instruction provides students ongoing opportunities for remediation and tutoring thus positively impacting grades, SOL performance, and ultimately graduation rates.

Superintendent: Dr. Rita Bishop Contact: Tiffany Woods, Public Relations Director 540-853-2905

Fishburn Park Elementary School: Focus for Environmental Science-Keeping it Green Roanoke City Public Schools

Fishburn Park Elementary became a focus school for environmental science in 2009. Students across the division interested in environmental learning can apply to participate in the focus school which has resulted in a diverse learning environment. The transition from a traditional elementary setting to an environmental focus was achieved through the support of Roanoke City Public Schools and community resources. Environmental science is integrated throughout the standard curriculum, and special programs offered also support Fishburn’s “green efforts” and academic vigor. The school now features raised beds for each grade level, a 1500 square foot flower and vegetable garden, rain collection barrels, and a renovated amphitheater. Students also actively participate in recycling and composting programs and many other envi- ronmentally friendly activities. The school’s foyer is a learning lab which features turtles, fresh and salt water fish, a large terrarium, and lizards. Our special events and activities include: an Environmental Fashion Show, an Environmental Art Show, and monthly Earth Hour classes. The school year ends with a celebration of students actively participating in Earth Week.

Superintendent: Dr. Rita Bishop Contact: Tiffany Woods, Public Relations Director 540-853-2905

52 Interactive Achievement Roanoke County Public Schools

Roanoke County Public Schools uses the Interactive Achievement program for district benchmarks and teacher assessments. Teachers have embraced the technology as their go-to assessment system, allowing them access to powerful reporting data on a regular basis. Given the available data, the division is working to train teachers to move into seamless integration of data and instruction. Teachers are maintaining and acting on assessment data from Interactive Achievement on a daily basis with biweekly support from a school data leadership team made up of teachers and administrators. The data leadership team also reports its findings biweekly with a central office team, who help schools solve logistic problems and can provide additional resources when the school data teams determine areas of need based on the data. Students are individually tracked with multiple data points and interventions are not only determined but also periodically assessed for their effectiveness.

Superintendent: Dr. Lorraine Lange Contact: Ben Williams [email protected]

Preschool Chess Program Roanoke County Public Schools

Roanoke County Public Schools is implementing a new program for preschool and kindergarten students to help develop academic skills, including math and reading readiness, and improve spatial and problem-solving skills – all through the game of chess. Students begin to learn the elements of chess and how each piece moves on the game board. While learning the process of playing the game, students also are developing early math concepts including pattern recognition. Several studies have indicated that students who play chess tend to perform better on math and reading assessments, have greater self-confidence and consider themselves as “smart.” The chess program has helped students who otherwise have short attention spans to remain focused on lessons for much longer time periods.

Superintendent: Dr. Lorraine Lange Contact: Sharon Sheppard, [email protected]

Green construction initiatives Roanoke County Public Schools

The Roanoke County School Board has committed to implementing green initiatives in all construction projects, where feasible. Our first use of green construction technology was during the renovation of Northside High School, where we included a geothermal heating and cooling system. Geothermal systems leverage the Earth’s consistent underground temperature to help heat or cool water and reduce the need for outside energy sources. This has resulted in an overall reduction of about 60% in utility expenses. With this success, the school board has decided to include geothermal systems in all projects unless local environmental conditions are not favorable for geothermal. For our Masons Cove Elementary reconstruction project, the school board decided to seek LEED certification for energy efficiency. This project uses not only geothermal systems, but takes full advantage of natural lighting to help reduce the need for electricity-based lighting and hot water. This project is expected to be completed by Fall 2011.

Superintendent: Dr. Lorraine Lange Contact: Dr. Marty Misicko, [email protected]

53 ABA Program Scott County Public Schools

Scott County Public Schools recognized the need for a systemic change for students ages 3 through 11 with Autism Spectrum Disorders and/or students with significant behavior problems related to skill ac- quisition. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) was employed to develop a program to better meet the needs of these students. One teacher and an assistant for every three students, providing one-on-one instruction, was crucial to the success of the program. All staff in the classroom were trained to work with each student equally. One of the primary goals was to ensure that the students became comfortable with more than one person so that it was more likely that the skills that were taught were generalized to other individuals or environments. Our BCBA established the program and provided training for all staff involved. She continues to monitor the success of the program and provides a report on the gains made by the children to the parents each year. She also has the responsibility of establishing a middle school/high school ABA Program for the continuation of services. The premise of the program centered around Applied Behavior Analysis Principles. Assessments include: Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP); Transition Assess- ment; and Task Analysis and Skill Tracking. An academic program was developed for each student based on the student’s individual needs and the Individualized Goal Selection Curriculum was used as a guide to determine what skills needed to be targeted on the student’s developmental level. Parent trainings, Occupa- tional Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech Services were direct services for the program. Scott County Public Schools has been proactive in meeting the needs of students with disabilities and behavioral concerns. The design of the program is unique in that it is the only one of its kind in Southwest Vir- ginia.

Superintendent: Dr. Gregory Baker Contacts: Courtney Currier 423-946-7474 Misty Pyle 276-386-7935

Speech Intervention Program (SIP) Scott County Public Schools

The SIP was developed to answer the new mandates for Response To Intervention (RTI). Scott County Public Schools currently serves 72 children in the SIP. The program is based upon scientific research data and the parents are happy because the students only miss 5 minutes of instruction each day. The SIP is an attempt to give a child opportunities to correct speech sound errors before a referral to Speech Language Therapy or to serve as a transition from speech back to the general classroom to monitor carryover and success of the student in the general setting. Strategies are initiated to assist children who have mild speech/ language difficulties, These strategies occur before referral for evaluation and IEP placement. Students are identified for the SIP through the screening process by both teacher and Speech Language Pathologist. A Child Study Meeting with the parents to inform them of the results of the screening and to obtain parent per- mission for placement. A paraprofessional works with the student on an individual basis 3-4 times per week for 5 minute sessions. Specific sounds are targeted in each session. Data is kept on a daily basis to show progress or lack of progress for the week. The paraprofessional consults with the Speech Language Patholo- gist weekly to review the data. At the end of each nine weeks, data is reviewed and a recommendation made for one of the following options:  Continue SIP because progress is noted  Dismiss from the program because goals have been achieved  Discontinue from the program because goals have not been achieved and a referral for a formal Speech Evaluation is warranted.

Superintendent: Dr. Gregory Baker Contacts: Jane Burdine 276-386-7002 Donna Hardy 276-386-7935

54 STOP the Violence Scott County Public Schools

Since STOP the Violence was implemented as an FCCLA national program in 2000, the Gate City Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) chapter has participated in all state training workshops and have carried out projects in our school and local elementary schools each year. We consider this an ongoing project. Our project serves two purposes: 1. To educate more of our members about violence, especially bullying/isolation. 2. To teach elementary students about what bullying is and how it can be prevented. The "local snapshot" revealed through school surveys that the most common problem "violence" issue in our school was isolation and bullying. After further research by members, it was also determined that bullying is quite prevalent in elementary school. Therefore, our project was two-fold. First, we set out to train more of our members about violence, using the STOP the violence training session as a model. Then, 24 members of the Nutrition/Wellness class carried out projects with 150 5th graders and 80 2nd graders, addressing the issue of bullying. The need for this project was to educate more members and elementary school children how bullying is a form of violence and can lead to more severe violence.

Superintendent: Dr. Gregory Baker Contact: Debbie Kilgore 423-335-3207 or 276-386-7522

Response to Intervention at Sandy Hook Elementary School Shenandoah County Public Schools

Sandy Hook Elementary School began implementing Response to Intervention (RtI) three years ago. The implementation of RtI has been the catalyst for an educational shift with our one hundred staff member team. The one and only focus for this team is to ensure all students succeed. Consequently, we have adopted the mantra – “Each student deserves at least one year’s educational growth.” Through our RtI process, all students are assessed by a universal screening tool three times a year. Using this information and other diagnostic measures, students are provided with tiered interventions. Tiered interventions include specific strategies for struggling learners and enrichment lessons for those students performing on or above grade level. The entire staff is working to provide each student within our 1,000 member student body with the appropriate instructional match. The RtI process has reenergized teachers which is translating into positive student achievement and success.

Superintendent: Dr. Keith Rowland Contact: Stacey Leitzel, Principal 540-465-8281

55 WATCH D.O.G.S. –Dads Of Great Students--at Ashby-Lee Elementary School Shenandoah County Public Schools

“I love this program,” said Cindy Herr talking about Ashby-Lee Elementary School’s Watch D.O.G.S. The Watch D.O.G.S. initiative began in 1998 in one school and has since spread to almost every state in the nation. Watch D.O.G.S. are fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and other father-figures who volunteer for at least one day each year. ALE Watch D.O.G.S work one-on-one with students who need help in reading or math. Watch D.O.G.S. play at recess, eat lunch with students, watch school entrances and hallways, assist with traffic flow, and mentor students. Their impact on learning is difficult to prove, but anecdotal reports indicate increased self-esteem especially among students who need a positive father-figure. Self-esteem is directly related to academic achievement. There are benefits for the Dogs as well. Richard Torovsky, an Ashby-Lee volunteer said, “It melts your heart when a little child sees you and says with a big smile, ‘Hello, Watch Dog!’”

Superintendent: Dr. Keith Rowland Contact: Cindy Herr, Assistant Principal 540-477-2927

Central High School’s Senior Instructional Leadership Corp Shenandoah County Public Schools

Central High School may have a cure for “senioritis.” The Senior Instructional Leadership Corp or SILC offers seniors who enroll in the program the opportunity to replace an uninteresting class they would have taken merely to be “fully scheduled” with a leadership and service opportunity. SILC participants are placed in a classroom with a teacher who has agreed to accept him or her as a teacher’s assistant and tutor. SILC is providing a whole new arena of learning for seniors. Classroom teachers work with SILC students to introduce them to the art and science of leading and teaching in the classroom. This may include a wide-range of classroom tasks from taking attendance to leading class discussions. SILC students have assumed the role of tutor as well with the classroom teacher identifying students who would benefit from extra help. SILC is allowing students who are not ordinarily student leaders or the “cream of the crop” the opportunity to become a classroom leader.

Superintendent: Dr. Keith Rowland Contact: Connie Pangle, Assistant Principal 540-459-2161

56 Young Men of Distinction and Young Ladies of Excellence Programs Southampton County Public Schools

The Young Men of Distinction and Young Ladies of Excellence Programs are designed to help develop leadership and academic skills and encourage positive decision making skills that will follow the students into middle school and beyond. Students in the programs are to model exemplary behavior, possess good citizenship, maintain and improve overall grades, pass SOL tests, and demonstrate good work/study habits. Students in the Young Men of Distinction and Young Ladies of Excellence Programs meet monthly. Cooperative Learning is used to reinforce SOL objectives through small group and whole group instruction, including on site hands on activities provided by the Air and Space Museum. Students also are provided etiquette training, monthly lessons and activities which include topics such as goal setting, academic excellence, tolerance, and health/nutrition. Through cooperative learning activities we have seen a 20% increase in student achievement as well as a 60% decline in discipline referrals.

Superintendent: Mr. Charles Turner Contact: Mr. Christopher Tsitsera, Principal 757-562-3007 Southampton County Pre-K/Preschool Program Southampton County Public Schools

The Southampton County Pre-K program is located in the Southampton County public school system. It consists of five classes of Pre-K and three classes of inclusion Preschool. Children are eligible if they are turning four years old by September 30 and complete a screening process. This quality Pre-K program offers student growth in areas such as; social skills, emotional growth, academic advances, and school readiness. The Pre-K program bases its improvements in learning through several different focus areas. We are currently using an age appropriate curriculum by Houghton Mifflin. A priority in establishing our curriculum was the alignment to the Virginia Foundation Blocks for Early Learning. Hands on learning activities are the foundation to any quality Pre-K program and are implemented daily to reach different styles of learners. We also reach out to programs designed to enhance the Pre-K learning environment, such as; My Teaching Partner, Virginia Star Quality Initiative and PALS.

Superintendent: Dr. Charles Turner Contact: Mrs. Linda Drake, Pre-K Lead Teacher 757-654-6461

Elementary Socratic Seminars Southampton County Public Schools

Nottoway Elementary School is expanding the implementation of the Socratic Method for literacy circles. Last year the school included one session during after-school tutoring. Fifth grade students who scored advanced on their previous Reading SOL tests and/or read on an advanced level were invited to attend. This year the Socratic Method is being expanded into the fifth grade reading class and during remediation time. Advanced students with a self-extending system have the opportunity to cultivate their thinking to scholarly levels. Students read self-chosen novels and are guided by a facilitator in the Socratic Method of teaching/ learning where the question is more important than the answer. All questions are open-ended, requiring deeper thought. Students learn the importance of inquiry and the process of disciplined, thoughtful dialogue. Students must “prove” or support what they believe by citing from the text. The students learn to accept differences of opinion and diverse ideas.

Superintendent: Mr. Charles Turner Contact: Mrs. Lorraine Whitehead, Teacher/Parent Liaison 757-859-6539

57 Be Fight Free (BFF) Suffolk City Public Schools

A new city-wide anti-violence campaign -- Be Fight Free (BFF) -- seeks to encourage students to reduce youth violence and plays on the popular teen shorthand “BFF,” which typically stands for “Best Friends Forever.” The BFF campaign is a collaborative initiative between the Community Action Coalition of Suffolk and Suffolk Public Schools. Student leaders at their respective schools planned each rally and related “Be Fight Free” school activities. These youth leaders want to take responsibility for issues that directly impact their lives, sparked particularly by two Suffolk high school students’ murders in 2010. The Be Fight Free campaign acknowledges that each student and adult can stop such violence by consistently and consciously finding other ways to resolve conflicts before it escalates to life-ending violence.

Superintendent: Dr. Deran Whitney Contact: Bethanne Bradshaw, Suffolk Public Schools 757-925-6752

Educational Plays that Teach Math and Science Suffolk City Public Schools

A creative teacher at John F. Kennedy Middle School writes original, educational plays that teach math and science basics while allowing students to dabble in drama. The “Miss Numerica Pageant” re- volves around a dozen contestants (Numbers 2-13) who vie for the title of “Miss Numerica.” Instead of the traditional swimsuit, evening gown and talent competitions, the Numerica contestants “compete” in events that bring to life the multiplicative and additive identities, cardinal, ordinal, prime and composite numbers. “The Legend of Sodium Chloride” focuses on Prince Sodium’s parents’ decree that he must be bonded by midnight in a double wedding with his sister, Carbon. He has his heart set on Queen Chlorine, but she turns up missing. It’s up to the Knights of the Periodic table to find her.

Superintendent: Dr. Deran Whitney Contact: Bethanne Bradshaw, Suffolk Public Schools 757-925-6752

Virtual Field Trip Suffolk City Public Schools

Fourth- and fifth-grade students participated in a unique, virtual field trip – the first created by Suf- folk Public Schools. Students from 11 schools first talked live via videoconference with the curator of Rid- dick's Folly house museum in downtown Suffolk. After a live introduction, the students then viewed a virtual tour of the house, led by two re-enactors portraying Nathaniel and Anna Mary Riddick. They take students on a trip through time back to The Civil War and Reconstruction. With the help of the division’s technology and video specialists, the virtual field trip video helped students make connections between the history they have studied and local history here in Suffolk. After the video, the curator met with students again live to answer questions about what they saw.

Superintendent: Dr. Deran Whitney Contact: Bethanne Bradshaw, Suffolk Public Schools 757-925-6752

58 African American Male Summit Virginia Beach City Public Schools

For the last four years Virginia Beach City Public Schools has hosted an African American Male Summit. The theme of this year’s summit, held in January, was Making the Dream a Reality, commemorat- ing Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday. The event, designed for high school students and those poised to enter high school, encourages a mindset of academic and personal success. This year about 400 eighth, ninth and tenth grade students attended, many with their parents. Five student sessions were held on leadership, communication skills, academics, graduation, and college life. Parents attended sessions on academic programs, college preparation, scholarship opportunities, internet safety, and athletic eligibility. Keynote speaker for this year’s event was Dr. Billy Cannaday of the University of Virginia. Awards to high school student organizations were presented for highest GPA-Academic Achievement, school projects and community service. Contact: Jobynia Caldwell, assistant superintendent of high school education, [email protected] or 757-263-1170. Virginia Beach City Public Schools has a comprehensive outreach for parents called Parent Connec- tion. This effort includes monthly seminars featuring guest speakers who are experts on topics of interest for parents, such as autism, positive discipline, stress and the family, and middle school transition, to name a few. Other resources include annual day-long conferences; monthly guest columnists on topics such as encouraging reading and a positive approach to homework; a web-based calendar offering parenting activities throughout the month; topical videos; a weekend food distribution program for students in high-need schools; and a computer giveaway program for qualifying families.

Superintendent: Dr. James Merrill Contact: Melissa McQuarrie, Director of Community Relations [email protected] or 757-263-1700

21eTeacher Virginia Beach City Public Schools

21eTeacher is an embedded professional development program. Asynchronous, online facilitated modules help teachers define the needs of millennial learners and develop lessons to increase student engagement through the effective use of Web 2.0 tools and strategies. Student- centered learning is the goal. Through shared experiences, teachers collaborate across and among grade levels and disciplines. This professional development exemplifies the power of partnerships, stemming from a pilot graduate education program developed collaboratively by the University of Virginia, LearniT-TeachiT, the National Institute of Aerospace and Virginia Beach City Public Schools. Within this pilot, a cadre of VBCPS teachers built a strong professional learning network and developed a culture of shared ideas. As 21eTeacher skills were mastered and confidence grew, educators within the learning community took on leadership roles as facilitators for VBCPS colleagues.

Superintendent: Dr. James Merrill Contact: Joe Burnsworth, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction [email protected] or 757-263-1070

59 6th year of our 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Westmoreland County Public Schools

Students learn skills by engaging in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) activities that motivate as well as educate. Students learn skills by creating meaningful opportunities to involve community members/parents while learning how to access resources. Students engage in STEM activities that help to prepare them for the global workplace.

Acting Superintendent: James W. Cook Contacts: Tricia Williams, Director of CLC Afterschool Program Jane Geyer, Principal 804-493-9818

Washington District Elementary School Westmoreland County Public Schools

One of the innovative improvements that have occurred at WDES has been the creation of a schedule that allows students to experience greater success through better teacher preparation. A well developed schedule can improve quality of school time, reduce problems associated with various pull out programs and allow for teachers to create a classroom environment that is based on meeting the needs of individual students. The adoption of this schedule has allowed for individual teachers to be more consistent in their alloca- tion of instructional time. This schedule has also allowed teachers to have additional time to collaborate with one another during planning time. At this time, teachers work collaboratively on lesson design, instructional focus, the design of assessments and remediation effort (plans). The use of the extension time has allowed WDES to build a quality remediation program that is geared toward students receiving additional opportunities of lesson instruction, as well as additional time for independent reading. The extension period allows our teachers to design a remediation plan shortly after ad- ministering a formative assessment, which, in our case, is normally the benchmark. Teachers disaggregate the data to focus their time on improving student weakness.

Acting Superintendent: James W. Cook Contact: Dashan Turner, Principal 804-224-9100 or [email protected]

Washington and Lee High School Westmoreland County Public Schools

Washington & Lee High School is proud to report the overwhelming success experienced by our new SOL/Final Exam Testing Schedule, allowing students to focus on testing, remediation, and re-testing, without distraction. The revised schedule called for three (3) days of testing - Day 1 - 1st & 3rd Block; Day 2 – 2nd & 4th Block; Day 3 – All History SOL’s, followed by remediation and re-testing. Students were incen- tivized to perform well by gaining “Testing Exempt” status if they passed the SOL, and completed all course work for the semester. The overwhelming response from students, teachers, and parents was extremely positive. Students remained on-task and discipline referrals dropped from the previous testing period by nearly 80%. A visit by the acting superintendent, Mr. James Cook, during remediation days prompted an observation – “all students appear to be focused on improving their (SOL) test scores and are fully engaged in instruction.”

Acting Superintendent: James W. Cook Contact: David O. White, Principal 804-493-8015

60 PARTNERS IN PRINT Family Literacy Program Williamsburg James City County Public Schools

According to experts in the field of “Family Engagement”, programs such as PARTNERS IN PRINT demonstrate a commitment by Matthew Whaley and our PTA to involve families in partnering in the education of their children. As a result, home-school relationships improve and parents gain valuable strategies to support learning at home. Our reading specialists, kindergarten, and first grade teachers provide four literacy nights each year in an effort to raise student achievement in reading and writing. Families are invited to dinner and dessert before the presentation. Instructional assistants and Jamestown HS Key Club members provide child care so that the kindergarten or first grade child has their parents’ complete attention. During the two fall sessions, reading specialists and classroom teachers demonstrate reading strategies. Then parents have the opportunity to practice these strategies with their child. The winter sessions are dedicated to writing strategies and follow the same format. Parents complete evaluations and each child chooses a free book to add to his/her home library. Matthew Whaley is proud of its commitment to early literacy and parent involvement. The evaluation feedback is very positive and clearly indicates their need and appreciation for these programs. PART- NERS IN PRINT enjoys an excellent reputation in our school community with typically 120 attendees per grade level. The result is that we all benefit from time spent together helping a child grow as a reader and writer. This program is funded by the PTA and provided by caring and committed teachers, specialists, instructional assistants and administrators.

Superintendent: Dr. Steven M. Constantino Contact: Dr. Regina Yitbarek, Senior Director for Elementary Services 757-253-6715

PATRIOT PALS Staff Mentor Program Williamsburg James City County Public Schools

Matthew Whaley School, home of the Patriots, is committed to the success of all students. We see this success when we savor the school’s climate, the smiles on student faces, parent and community involvement, and the dedication of our staff of talented professionals. However, we also must use test scores as a measure of student success. Many of our students lack stability in their homes or support with their school projects and assignments. Consequently their school work, confidence, and self-esteem begin to suffer as they fall further behind in their assignments. Without intervention, these students are at risk for failure. Patriot Pals is a building-wide commitment to students in grades 3-5 who are at risk for becoming disengaged in school or who have risk factors which may contribute to them dropping out of school. In the months right before the SOL tests, staff members ‘adopt’ a child in order to provide the emotional and academic support necessary for students to learn and achieve. They meet frequently with their mentee’s teachers and tailor their available personal and planning time to be a cheerleader for their student. Students receive extra encouragement, praise for their effort, support with homework, and help to review for a test. In some cases, mentors have taken their mentees out for dinner or attended their basketball games. Whatever the need, Matthew Whaley staff members go above and beyond and these mentoring relationships have resulted in students experiencing success…on tests, in the classroom, and in their lives.

Superintendent: Dr. Steven M. Constantino Contact: Dr. Regina Yitbarek, Senior Director for Elementary Services 757-253-6715

61 TRIBE TUTORS Mentor/Tutor Program Williamsburg James City County Public Schools

Tribe Tutors is an outreach program at Matthew Whaley that has had tremendous success. Coordi- nated by the students of William and Mary and our Matthew Whaley guidance counselor, the college athletes mentor/tutor some of our “at risk” student population. After an orientation and training session, the athletes are matched with students and teachers. Approximately 30 – 35 college students work one-on-one with children, connecting with them during lunch and recess. Some students have also chosen to “adopt” a class and work directly in the classroom to tutor. The college athletes volunteer for 1 hour every week. Our Matthew Whaley students look forward to their time with their Tribe tutors. It has been a rewarding experience for both college and elementary students. Several mentors have continued with their students the following year and the pride that both the mentor and the student feel is priceless.

Superintendent: Dr. Steven M. Constantino Contact: Dr. Regina Yitbarek, Senior Director for Elementary Services 757-253-6715

Empowering ESOL Parents through Bilingual Outreach and Engagement Winchester City Public Schools

Since 2004, Winchester City Public Schools has employed bilingual parent liaisons to provide language access and culturally appropriate services to newcomer families. With an ESOL population increase of 1251% since 1996, it is imperative that WPS provide immigrant families, often Spanish-speaking, with a direct means of communication to their child’s school. Parent liaisons work closely with school-based staff, providing support on a daily basis in the form on interpretation of parent calls and conferences, translation of letters and other communications home and assist schools with meeting longer-term goals of increasing parent participation and associated academic outcomes. Parent liaisons allow other bilingual staff members to maintain their school-day duties (ESOL and language instruction, for example) while providing parents with an open door to connect with instructors, guidance counselors and other school personnel.

Superintendent: Rick Leonard Contact: J. Vernon Laney, Coordinator of Curriculum & Instruction [email protected]

62 The Virginia School Boards Association is a voluntary, self supporting and nonpartisan organization whose primary mission is the advancement of education through the unique American tradition of local citizen control of, and accountability for, the Commonwealth’s public schools. In this way, education policy is decided by the local school boards who are directly accountable to the community. VSBA promotes quality education through services to local school boards. It represents school boards’ interests before the legislature, state agencies, Congress and other state and national regulatory bodies. Membership in the VSBA represents the Commonwealth’s school boards, who in turn, govern the schools attended by 100% of the public school children in Virginia.

63 President Warren J. “Jeff” Bain (Pulaski County)

President-Elect Joan E. Wodiska (Falls Church City)

Past President Stuart D. Gibson (Fairfax County)

Members-At-Large Betty D. Covington (Prince William County) Karen J. Gerlach (Radford City) Henry J. Featherston (Amelia County) Juandiego Wade (Charlottesville City)

Committee Chairmen Finance/Audit Priscilla B. Godfrey (Loudoun County) Federal Relations George A. Bradby (Isle of Wight County) Legislative Positions Kerri M. Wilson (Harrisonburg City)

Regional Chairmen Blue Ridge William S. Kidd (Wythe County) Central David W. Christian (Buckingham County) Eastern Rosemary M. Mahan (Westmoreland County) Northeastern Jon A. Buttram (Fairfax City) Southern Ellery Sedgwick (Prince Edward County) Southside Kenneth W. Lewis (Petersburg City) Southwest Harold T. Golding (Carroll County) Tidewater Diane B. Jones (Southampton County) Valley Roy K. Boyles (Warren County)

Children Are Our Common Wealth 64