Lessons Learned

There are several important lessons that the Riverside Elementary staff learned during the process that they would share with others who want to see similar improvements: 

  • Work to cultivate a joint mindset around meeting reading improvement goals.
  • Be vulnerable about what you know and what you need to learn.
  • Build trust by working closely together. This includes frequently opening classrooms to others. 
  • View improvement as a process of continuous refinement rather than an outcome.
  • Invest in professional learning. The time, resources and effort to ensure that the staff is as knowledgeable as possible pays dividends down the road. 

In this video, Riverside educators discuss the importance of robust professional development in changing educators' mindsets and increasing students' reading ability. 

In this video below, Riverside staff discuss the importance of viewing implementation of new strategies and resources as a process. 

Riverside began the journey to improve literacy outcomes for all students in their building several years ago. That journey continues today as they continue to learn and refine their practice. The great thing about Riverside's process is that anyone can undertake the same strategies and approaches that they took to improve. It will look different in every building and district, but Riverside's underlying commitment to learn together and keep students at the forefront is a great example to follow. 
 

Reflection Questions: 

  • What lessons resonate most with you and why?
  • Now that you have worked through the Case Study, jot down one or two goals you have for improving the approaches to literacy at your building or district. What are the first few action steps you need to take to begin improving your approaches to literacy instruction?  Who needs to be involved?
Previous Section 5: Successes and Impact

The End

Last Modified: 5/22/2023 2:39:55 PM