Curriculum & Instruction (new)
At PPS, we believe every student can achieve at high levels when provided with engaging, grade-level content. Students thrive when they have voice and choice in their learning within an inclusive community that affirms their identity. To support this vision, we continuously review our curricula to make sure that it is aligned to our district's instructional vision, fully standards-aligned, up-to-date with the most recent research, and provides opportunities for all students to achieve at grade-level and beyond.
Here are the essential elements of what we believe constitutes effective instruction:
Inclusive Classroom Environment
Teachers and students build relationships and knowledge together toward an inclusive classroom environment.
Active Learning
Students are actively engaged in their own learning through inquiry, problem solving, discourse, phenomena, case studies, proficiency-based teaching and cultural humility.
High Expectations
Belief that all students, through scaffolds and productive struggle, can reach standards-aligned, grade-level content. Our outcomes are equitable.
Cultural Responsiveness
Teachers bring cultural humility to their teaching, and use curriculum and instruction that reflects and values students' cultures, languages and identities
Assets-Based Approach
Students are critical learners who have identities, voice and agency. Educators view all students, especially those who may have experienced marginalization, through an asset lens: What gifts do you bring?
Team Approach
Special Educator, EL Teacher, Coach, Classroom Teacher and Ed Tech working collaboratively to ensure all students have access to high quality, grade-level instruction and curriculum.
Assessments for Learning
Assessments are primarily used for student and teacher reflection and taking action based on the data in order to close opportunity gaps, and are a driver of increasing access for all students to grade-level content.