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We are thrilled to share some exciting updates and initiatives that have taken place recently. Sebrone Johnson, CEO, led a delegation of charter school board members and school leaders from Academy of Health Sciences, Citizenship and Science Academy of Rochester, Innova Girls Academy, Renaissance Academy Charter School of the Arts, and University Preparatory Charter School for Young Men on a transformative trip to New Orleans. This enriching visit was made possible by the gracious hospitality of New Schools for New Orleans, a comprehensive school support organization.
During our time in New Orleans, we had the privilege of visiting two remarkable schools, KIPP Central Primary School and Edward Hynes Lakeview Elementary School. KIPP Central, a pre-K-4 school, adopted a Science of Reading program in ELA and their math curriculum moved to Electric Math. ELA proficiency jumped from 27% proficient to 54% in two years. Their experience is that intensive coaching of teachers while stabilizing the curriculum has been very effective in both ELA and math. Incredibly, they are still the lowest of the five New Orleans-based KIPP primary schools which are in the 60-70%+ range, a range Rochester’s schools might wish to aim for.
Edward Hynes Lakeview, pre-K-8 school, is rated as an “A” school, which means that more than 80% of their students are proficient at grade level. They offer parents a choice of regular school or full French immersion in pre-K-4. In French immersion, only French is spoken in all classes except ELA, and the kids tend to pick it up naturally. In fifth grade those students revert to classes in English but continue to study French, as well. Regardless of whether the children are in the English or French programs, the success of the school comes from building a nurturing school culture, consistent pedagogy, and lots of classroom observations and feedback.
These institutions exemplify excellence in education, showcasing innovative learning environments, engaged students, and visionary leadership. Witnessing their success firsthand has inspired us to further support effective educational practices and nurture similar environments within Rochester charter schools.
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