Consistent with Goal 1: Learning Outcomes of the 2008-2012 District Strategic Plan, the Office of Bilingual Education/ESL, and World Languages held a three- day training on July 6-8, 2010.  Bilingual Education teachers were trained in Dual Language Education – One Way Model by Ms. Elizabeth Willaum. The Dual Language Model, which has been implemented at Stillman, Washington, and Evergreen Schools, will continue for the 2010-2011 school year. While transitional models still exist, this trainingwill assist the Office of Bilingual Education/ESL and World Languages in its effort to expand the Dual Language Model throughout the Plainfield Public Schools.

Consistent with Goal 1: Learning Outcomes of the 2008-2012 District Strategic Plan, the PPS Passport to Summer Learning began on Tuesday, July 6, 2010 and will conclude on Thursday, August 10, 2010. The three (3) summer sites are Emerson, Washington and Plainfield High School. The summer program provides available remedial and enrichment opportunities to students in grade 12 required for graduation and/or students in grades 9-10 required for promotion. Additionally, extended learning opportunities are provided to targeted students enrolled at Hubbard, Maxson, PAAAS and elementary schools and students in grades K-8. These opportunities are provided to students in the required courses of Literacy, Mathematics, Social Studies, and/or Science. Direct teacher instruction and/or technology-based interventions comprise the delivery model for these areas. Additionally, English Language Learners and Special Education students in selected grades are provided an opportunity to extend their learning as reflected in the appropriate curriculum for ELL students or IEP for SPED students.

Interim Superintendent Belin-Pyles would like to commend the Office of Educational Services for the planning, coordination, and implementation of this exciting learning opportunity for our students, as well as district and school administrators, teachers, and staff.

Consistent with Goal 1: Learning Outcomes of the 2008-2012 District Strategic Plan, Ms. Caryn D. Cooper, Acting Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, began training for the summer curriculum writers on Wednesday, July 7, 2010, in the media center of the Clinton K-8 Center.  The audience was comprised of elementary, middle, and high school teachers.  They continued work on the development of the new curriculum, which will be completed by September 2010.  The first few days will be devoted to refining the work that has been done, as well as incorporating assessments, modifications, and extended learning opportunities for students of varying levels.  Participants are excited and eager to be a part of this endeavor and commented that they are extremely pleased with the notion of seeing their completed work implemented in the schools.

Consistent with Goal 1: Learning Outcomes of the 2008-2012 District Strategic Plan, Ms. Caryn D. Cooper, Acting Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, met with the district’s instructional administrators to begin preparing for the 2010-2011 school year.  Topics discussed included: 2010-2011 School Calendar, district initiatives, curriculum focus and updates, and the writing initiative.  Ongoing meetings have been scheduled to continue collaboration and effective preparation for the upcoming school year.