GILLESPIE TECHNOLOGY MAGNET CLUSTER SCHOOL

ILLINOIS

SCHOOL WEBSITE

PROGRAM(S) PARTICIPATED IN: Sprint 2014, Solution 2015

TEAM

Monica Prinz, Teacher
Amy DelGatto, Teacher
Michelle Willis, Teacher

PROBLEM: We have a high number of students entering first grade with below level literacy skills which places them as at-risk learners.

SOLUTION: We provided a blended learning community which involved online and hard copies of leveled reading materials and differentiated e-learning programs for core literacy skills.

IMPACT:  It was noted that all students made growth towards their reading goals and the majority of both classes (80- 85%) were at level by years end.

“We learned that blended learning environments could be successful but need to be monitored and adjusted for each student. It is not a one and done system. Teachers need to be actively involved and monitor student growth and progress. It is important to involve families and use the medium (Internet/books) that they are familiar and comfortable with. While students may be familiar with technology, parents may not be as comfortable. Many prefer methods that they have learned to read.” –Monica Prinz, Teacher at Gillespie