Part 1: Analysis of Context

1. What do we know about our learners?

 North Ridge learners are very happy and positive about coming to school each day.  They start and end each day with smiles and a great energy.  They are enthusiastic about their learning and are eager to learn about new things. Our students love to question learning, they extend their learning through hands on and project based activities, and are very eager to do their best.   Our students love to showcase their hard work.  North Ridge students are helpful to all in our building and are supportive of each other as well as new students who come to our school.  

We have a diverse student population, which enriches the culture and climate of our school.  Our students are eager to share their cultures with  peers, staff, and families,  especially during our Spring Multicultural Celebration/Performance. 

2. What evidence supports what we know about our learners?

Students identify themselves as being hard working, friendly, respectful, and they love coming to school.  They like to learn through projects and hands on tasks and believe they are at the best school.  Staff see many of the same qualities in our learners and note that students want to do their best.  Staff commented that our students like learning through projects best (genius hour, collaboration, etc.), and are happy and positive.

Becoming a proficient reader and writer is an essential component in student success in K – 12 and beyond.  Based on our observations and classroom based assessments, we have identified Literacy, specifically reading, as an area requiring further attention and support.  

Part 2: Focus and Planning

3. What focus emerges as a question to pursue?

We are committed to improving student achievement in Literacy with a particular focus on Reading.  We are also committed to  building a more inclusive learning environment where all of our learners can be successful in their educational journey.    

A school wide reading assessment was done in the fall of 2016 and from this data, we looked at an action plan to address the needs of all of our students.  

 

4. What professional learning do we need?

Our staff chose to use their  summer Pro-D to explore reading assessments, running records and to become familiar with the reading program called,  Fountas and Pinnell.   

5. What is our plan?

Throughout the year there will be ongoing opportunities available for staff to engage in professional development and inquiry.   We have several  staff members (Primary, Intermediate and LST)  participating in the Changing Results for Young Readers Inquiry with the district and as well had teachers participating in a Learning by Design focus – with Faye Brownie and Leyton Schnellert.  

Ongoing opportunities will be provided to continue exploring reading strategies through curricular cafes and collaboration time wherever possible.

Part of our plan included a remodel of our Learning Support Model with us shifting to a more fluid program. with students progressing and exiting as their skills increase.  As a school, we have implemented a school wide guided reading program.  Our LST team will continue implementing the Fountas and Pinnell Intensive and Guided Reading Program.

 

Part 3: Reflect, Adjust, Celebrate

6. How will we know our plan is making a difference? (evidence / success criteria)

As we continue to gather more information about our students as readers, the plan will be adjusted an modified accordingly.  

7. Based on the evidence, does our inquiry require adjustment?

As we continue to gather more information about our students as readers, the plan will be adjusted an modified accordingly.