Philadelphia Schools Work Towards Reform
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Reference Education -> subcategory Weather.
Philadelphia Schools Push for Transformative Reform
Summary:
Research for Action (RFA), an independent research organization, is conducting a thorough, multi-year study titled "Learning from Philadelphia Public Schools Reform." This effort examines the sweeping changes following the state's takeover of the Philadelphia school system, aiming to significantly enhance student services and learning.Key Focus Areas:
Data Utilization:
The study delves into how data is employed in underperforming schools to guide instructional decisions. It also considers the influence of external entities like the district and educational providers on these practices.Teacher Quality:
Over the last four years, Philadelphia schools have made substantial progress in enhancing teacher recruitment, retention, and quality. Since 2002, they've significantly reduced the number of teachers with emergency certifications, decreased classroom vacancies, and increased certification rates, especially among new hires. Achievements include improved curricular and coaching support, expanded school-based hiring, and enhanced principal training for new teacher induction.Governance:
The reforms in Philadelphia schools are unprecedented, involving a state takeover, replacement of the school board with a School Reform Commission, and partnerships with Educational Management Organizations.Student Outcomes:
A primary goal is boosting student achievement and performance. RFA collaborates with Johns Hopkins University and the RAND Corporation to analyze student test scores.Development of Small High Schools:
Philadelphia is creating up to 30 new small high schools to offer more choices to families, as part of a major high school reform initiative.Student Engagement:
Researchers are engaging with youth groups to capture student perspectives on the ongoing reforms.Alternate Route Teacher Certification:
RFA is supporting a University of Pennsylvania evaluation of Pennsylvania's pilot program for alternate teacher certification, offering professionals the Accelerated Certification for Teachers program. This evaluation is funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.Middle Grades Math and Science Achievement:
The study seeks to identify factors that improve math and science outcomes for middle-grade students, focusing on schools in high-poverty areas. Key variables include grade structure (middle school or K-8), education providers, curriculum, and teacher professional development’s impact on student achievement.As Philadelphia Schools press forward with transformative reforms, Research for Action remains closely involved, evaluating and supporting the evolution of these educational changes.
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