CTL provides external coaching to all middle school mathematics teachers in two districts: Knott County and Hart County, in order to build internal capacity for strengthening mathematics achievement and preparing students for high school and college.  Key features of the project include:

• Ongoing analysis of achievement data and planning with schools
• Classroom observation and feedback
• Coaching to improve pedagogy and mathematical understanding
• Professional development

In addition, CTL staff members work closely with each district's curriculum and instruction contacts and the GEAR UP site coordinators.  Our approach to the work is customized for each district, taking into account differences in test scores between the two.  Although the approaches are somewhat different for each district, the basic structure of the work is the same.

CTL analyzed school and district test data to assess needs and pinpoint areas for improvement.  Test scores are very low.  Interviews with teachers and principals, along with classroom observations, suggested that a lack of meaningful instructional planning contributed to low performance.  In addition, classroom instruction emphasized covering content and minimized interaction with students. 

The district indicated that in the past, teachers received training that lacked classroom application.  CTL has held planning sessions with each teacher, addressing the importance of well-planned lessons, sharing techniques and strategies, and helping to locate resources.  There has been improvement in teachers’ efforts to actively engage students, use more effective questioning techniques, and encourage student conversation, all aimed at increasing understanding and application of mathematics content.  Now that a positive relationship has been established, teachers are more comfortable asking for feedback and noting areas where they need help.

As in Knott County, CTL analyzed school and district data and found that while  middle schools were performing well, achievement dropped sharply when students entered high school.  CTL also recognized that effective planning was an issue, and worked with teachers to design lessons that engage students, clarify learning goals, facilitate new learning and provide opportunities to reflect on and track learning. 

In Hart County, the instructional focus has been on algebraic reasoning, and on using data from the Kentucky Core Content Test and Educational Planning and Assessment System to guide teachers’ instructional decision making.  There is regular communication with teachers via e-mail, with professional literature and sample lessons provided by CTL to promote teacher growth.  More intentional planning and changes in instruction are becoming evident.  CTL is currently working with the district contact to partner middle and high school teachers in professional learning, to ensure that students have a strong foundation to succeed in high school.

For more information:
Jo Ann Mosier
v: 502.895.9500 x324