100 Brookline Street February 2016

TODAY’S AGENDA Description of expectations and work we’re doing in school to prepare our school community for the move. Explanation of the 100 Brookline Street Site and the logistics of moving in the spring. Brief Overview of PARCC Testing this spring.

A little bit about the process… The fundamental philosophy that all learners can be motivated, engaged and challenged by a rigorous curriculum and that we have an ethical obligation to provide a safe and supportive learning environment that encourages reflection and growth has framed this building project. D– Decision-making of a shared, team built model R – Research-based ideas for change E – Emphatically believe in education for everyone A – Action-oriented M– Motivated and committed to see our goals through to fruition

High Expectations Be prepared to roll up your sleeves and put your best effort forward. Model and use respectful language and a dignified attitude to minimize tense situations. Hold each other accountable. Make mistakes and learn from them. Expect and encourage the same from everyone.

Two Priority Focus Areas EFFECTIVE INSTRUCTION – Aligning standards-based objectives with engaging activities that lead to high performance on daily assessments. SCHOOL STRUCTURES & SCHOOL CULTURE – Clear roles and responsibilities support a professional environment of reflection and accountability

Two Priority Focus Areas 1. Effective Instructional Practices Learning Walks will be scheduled on a quarterly basis to identify trends and patterns across all classrooms so we can target specific areas of improvement and celebrate “quick wins” Collaboration times (faculty meetings, department meetings, PLCs) will provide an opportunity to observe, reflect, debrief and define best instructional practices.

2. School Structure and School Culture Clear safety and behavioral expectations Clearly defined roles for all administrators and teacher leaders. All classrooms create predictable environments, and a climate that supports learning. Advisory will promote student involvement in the guiding principle (DREAM). Two Priority Focus Areas

An Important Message The Special Education Department would like parents/guardians to know that: – Consistency is very important. – Students’ core teachers will remain the same. – Services and service providers will not change or be affected by the move. – Schedules will remain the same. – Transitioning will be familiar.

An Important Message The Guidance Department would like parents/guardians to know that: – Guidance monitors attendance and tardies. – Guidance will be visible to students to help them navigate the new building. – Guidance will be available to parents to ask any questions they may have. – Guidance will provide overall support to students with the transition from the old building to the new building.

An Important Message The English Language Learners Department would like parent/guardians to know that: – Students’ Sheltered English Immersion teachers will remain the same. – English Language Instruction will not be altered or compromised in any way. – Schedules will remain the same with a renewed focus on becoming familiar with the new space. – Cluster 7 teachers excel at anticipating students’ needs and making accommodations so their students thrive.

Upcoming Events PARCC *May 3, 4, 5 ELA *May 17, 18, 19 Math MCAS 8 th Grade Science *May 10, 11 Open House *March 30 th 3-5pm SCHOOL COUNCIL *PTO

PARCC MAY 2016

PARCC will be used in 2016 only and a new PARCC/MCAS test will be created for We are staying focused on grade level content and curriculum. We want students to know that we expect them to do their best work, but that we understand this is a new type of assessment. Our Message

TMMS will be “held harmless” for our scores this year. This means… – Our accountability and assistance level (Level 3 in 2015) can stay the same or improve, but can not decline – SGP, CPI, and Achievement Levels will still be calculated PARCC OVERVIEW

TMMS will conduct paper-based testing only. Tests are timed with extended time for ELLs and students on IEPs with this accommodation. Testing sessions are minutes. Individual graphic organizers and reference sheets are not allowed because of embedded scaffolds. There is no longer a Long Composition in Grade 7, as students will be expected to write multi-paragraph essays in all grades. PARCC Overview & Changes

The math test is comprised of multiple choice, short answer, multiple select (two answers) and multi-step problems. Students will need to demonstrate mathematical practices with a focus on modeling, reasoning, and precision. Short answer questions are focused on conceptual understanding, procedural skills, and application. PARCC Math Overview

Teachers are receiving training from the district to help support students in taking this test. Parents can help students by encouraging them to talk about what they are learning and reading, and by being vigilant about checking their homework and grades. Students will be bringing home sample test questions and practice essays. If your child is invited to participate in an afterschool program for math, please sign them up! What to do from here…

If you would like to discuss the PARCC test or specific ways to support your child at home with their academics, please contact the Guidance Department at TMMS, your child’s ELA or Math teacher, or the Program Specialist. – Ms. Colleen McGuinness – Grade 6 – Ms. Danielle Paoli – Grade 7/SEI – Ms. Donna Horgan – Grade 8 – Ms. Kerry Hayward – Program Specialist Additional Information