Groton classroom teachers have used various methods to “map” their curriculum.  Mapping curriculum is much like creating the road map for a state.  Each county is a different lesson taught throughout the year and when you put them together it makes a map of a complete state (your childs’ classes). 

Our teachers in the high school, junior high and elementary are in the process of getting the maps put together.  This is not an easy task.  Whether you use excel spread sheet or Tech Paths, each month and all activities used in a classroom are written and aligned with the state standards.

We hope to have a good framework in place by fall.  Now you know what your kids’ teachers will be doing this summer!  Perhaps they can bring their tablets to the pool to map curriculum.

The elementary and high school staff are partnering to finish out this year with two book talks. Professional book talks are a great way to visit and share with fellow staff members. One of the books we are reading includes

A Framework for Understanding Poverty by Ruby K. Payne.
The staff members joining in this book talk are:

Cara Dennert
Kristen Gonsoir
Chris Nyberg
Jodi Sternhagen
Nancy Cutler
Ann Gibbs

The other book is Never Work Harder Than Your Students and Other Principles of Great Teaching
byRobyn Jackson

• Kristi Anderson
  Adam Franken
  Carol Knecht
  DeAnn Sweeter
  Deb Winburn
  Nancy Cutler
• Anne Zoellner

Given the nature of the reading I am sure there will be “lively” discussion in both groups.