July News Release - Middle School
New Prague Middle School is in the process of conducting a comprehensive assessment of our current practices and structures. The assessment is a two year process that involves both staff and parents. The process will include:
• On-line surveys created by the National Middle School Association completed by students, parents and staff
• A school-wide book study ("This We Believe: Keys to Educating Young Adolescents^TM)
• Research into "best practices^TM
• Interviews with state middle level education leaders
• Site visits to exemplary middle schools
• A school visit and evaluation by two highly experienced middle level experts from the National Middle School Association
What are the benefits of conducting a comprehensive assessment of our school?
• To form a total picture of New Prague Middle School based on observations and interviews at the school site, along with data from the assessment
• Reflect on observed areas of strength and areas of need improvement based on the book, "This We Believe: Keys to Educating Young Adolescents^TM)
• Provide feedback from educators in the building on three important areas of middle grade education
1) Curriculum, instruction, and assessment
2) Leadership and organization
3) Culture and community
• Provide specialized reports and data
• Help build a comprehensive school improvement plan including a plan for professional development
The New Prague Middle School staff is committed to continuous improvement. It is always important to reflect on our current reality (results), and make changes based on best practice that will improve student achievement. We constantly search for a better way to achieve goals and accomplish the vision of our organization. Processes are in place for each teacher to work collaboratively in an ongoing cycle of continuous improvement.
New Prague Middle School has been working under the same structure for eleven years. It is time for our school to conduct this assessment. I do believe if we follow this process completely, we will make future decisions that will be in the best interest for middle level students in the New Prague Area School District.