ELLM success is based on the professional development of its classroom teachers. Pre-kindergarten teachers range from high school graduates to certified teachers and the ELLM coaching model is the consistent factor for early literacy. Highly trained and skilled literacy coaches work in ELLM classrooms modeling lessons and providing feedback, guidance and suggestions to classroom teachers. ELLM coaches ensure that each room is a literacy rich environment and includes ELLM supplied classroom libraries as well as a variety of hands-on and engaging literacy related materials. Throughout the year, “Teacher-Get- Togethers” provide opportunities for ELLM teachers to visit other classrooms and share best practices. Additionally, “Teacher-Get-Togethers” provide venues for training in a large group setting.
ELLM provides daily lessons provided to teachers. Each is built around a fun and engaging theme of the month and provides teachers with plans (including scripts and tips), books, and materials for the related activities. For the last two years, lessons have included WOW (English Language Learner) components.
SEEDS’ 71 volunteer mentors worked with 550 ELLM students to provide individualized early literacy lessons and experiences. The impact of the mentoring intervention is seen in the overall student gains.
During the initial three years of implementation, each student who remained with ELLM for 6 months was tested to measure gains. In years IV and V, assessments were given to a sample of students ensure the continued high levels of outcomes were attained. However, in 2009-2010, assessments will revert to including all students as ELLM coordinates with the school district to provide Pre-K academic and instructional information to both Pre- and Kindergarten teachers.
YEAR V: RESULTS
|
