NCLB- AYP goals and turning in lesson plans?

Question

Our school will be beginning our second year in School in Improvement status in the Fall. Our county redistricted about a year ago, so we got a new influx of kids this year that needed serious remediation in both reading & math. Definate growth was made, however I am unsure as to whether or not we made AYP this year (07-08)- for some reason I don't think we find out til' Oct.-

Through word of mouth, I have heard that we as teachers will have to turn in lesson plans next year. Does anyone know if there is a specific format these lessons have to be in- or if it is on a school by school basis (principal's decision)? My lessons are purposeful & thoughtful, however I use a plan book because that format is easiest for me. My principal has been very pleased with me, & considers me to be an asset to the school. I am concerned about the time it is going to take me to type up all of these lessons if that's whats expected. Has anyone gone through this, and willing to share their experience?

Answer 1

I agree completely with what has been said. As far as the "format" your lesson plans have to take- that should also be part of a conversation between teachers and your site administrator. It sounds like you have the potential to be a teacher leader at your school- your principal has demonstrated his/her confidence in your work. This is a good thing. Use this leverage to set the bar high for all teachers while at the same time honoring your contract. Schools in program improvement do get an influx of more money, so be sure to become part of the decision making bodies that will ensure that these monies are spent on the kids needs- especially those subgroups that will get you out of PI.

Answer 2

You mean you've never turned in lesson plans before!  Holy c**p!  I've been teaching English for 22 years, and I had to learn to write the "perfect unit/lesson plans" in college.  We have always had to turn ours in weekly in West Virginia.  Your school will give you examples of what needs to be included.  Ours has to have a title, objectives, materials list, each task to be performed that period and the approximate time to complete each task - for each subject taught for all week

Answer 3

Your school wrote a school improvement plan last year.  And that plan should be a collaboration between admin and teachers.  Also it has to be approved by your site counsel which have teacher representatives.  Also any change in working condition must be contractual or bargained.  This is the time to get involved!  Teachers must lead the way.  Your admin may not have the solutions assuming there is one.  

I teach in a California school that will most likely be PI 2 next year as well.  Is your district segregated?  It might be time to push for more socio-economic integration through your school board.