Inside this issue: FEB 2007

District 47 Revises Middle School Experience

Additional Time in Math/Science

Facts and Myths Concerning the Language Arts/Social Studies Block

Middle School Schedule Brings New Look to Encores

As I See It

Superintendent’s Message

District 47 Revises Middle School Experience District 47 is committed to provide EVERY student with a quality, well-rounded education and a solid foundation in the core subjects of math, science, social studies and English. Core subjects prepare students to understand and learn academically, socially, and culturally throughout life. An increased focus on these four core subjects will allow our students to meet the challenges of high school, college and global careers. It is in the spirit of this commitment that the Board of Education approved a new middle school day schedule at the December 18th board meeting. The revised middle school schedule will improve knowledge and skills in core subjects while retaining art, music, foreign language, technology lab, and life skills. District leaders have identified the best method to deliver competitive levels of core classes by expanding their time periods. Class times for “encores” (art, music, foreign language, technology lab, and life skills) will be reduced, but not eliminated. State and local standards require students to be able to apply what they learn through problem-solving, communication, technology, and teamwork. Added time in the core areas will help students to apply these strategies.  Twenty-five percent of the school day will include physical education, art, music, foreign language, technology lab, or life skills. A well-rounded education includes these classes to develop the mind, body and spirit. Active learning in today’s classrooms is varied, and includes hands-on, visual and auditory learning making the experience intellectually stimulating and rewarding. School districts must make modifications for students to meet and exceed academic expectations to compete in the global economy. District 47 is committed and focused on educational excellence so our students become balanced, responsible citizens.