Jackson School District

The Writing Project
Gary and Tanoi Jackson, McCulloch Academy of Science and Technology

The Priority Need:
According to 2006 state assessment tests, 80% of third graders and 92% of fourth graders are writing below a proficient level.

The Project:
A writing committee will be formed to explore and develop resources for parent/community teaching collaboration. This committee will develop and coordinate hands-on writing and learning activities for third, fourth, fifth and sixth graders. These activities might include, but are not limited to, book clubs, pen pals and letters to those in the service. These activities will be in alignment with core curriculum. The committee will work with teachers to ensure that all parents have access to a course syllabus, which will help parental understanding of curriculum. A “Writing Fair Night” will be held at the end of the year to showcase the student’s work from the year.

Anticipated Results:
Beginning in 2008, fourth grade and fifth grade students will increase their state assessment scores in writing by 20% to reach the goal of proficiency for all students by 2014.

Jackson High School Trimester Implementation Project
Doug Meyers, Jackson High School

The Priority Need:
In light of the new requirements for graduation mandated by the Michigan Department of Education for the class of 2011, the present Jackson High School semester schedule limits flexibility, selection of electives and credit recovery. Current semester scheduling limits the opportunities for credit recovery, which may contribute to drop out rates.

The Project:
In order to execute this project the following must be accomplished:
Obtain buy in from stakeholders (teachers, parents, school administrators, union representatives, school department heads, superintendent and school board).
Obtain approval from district superintendent.
Obtain approval from district school board.
Present plan to parents.

Anticipated Results:
Shepherd the implementation of a trimester schedule for Jackson High School, ideally by the fall of 2008. The trimester schedule will assist students in meeting the new graduation requirements for the class of 2011.