Comprehensive Final Report - Action Research - EDLD 5399

Evaluation of curriculum has been a weakness with the district for several years. Even though an aligned curriculum was created, the evaluation was nonexistent. Support for the curriculum, however, came with increased scores on assessments, but also gaps were created in the education of students. This data was proved through the curriculum survey that was created as part of the internship experience. Even though a solid evaluation system was not in place, the district had purchased the CSCOPE curriculum; however, still an evaluation system has not been created. It would be my recommendation for the school district to have curriculum specialist in place to have an ongoing review for the implementation of the curriculum. It is recommended to have a curriculum specialist for all four core subjects. The survey that was created showed that all campuses are not implementing the curriculum as required. A summary of data was formulated, and the data will be submitted to all campus principals. The data will assist the campus leaders formulate a needs assessment in order to drive the development of their individual campus improvement plans.

The school district, as with many others, is not considered a wealthy school district. One thing the school district has going for it is the continuous slow growth of students. The school district has failed to recognize the growing needs in facility improvements and maintenance, and therefore the school district is currently faced with improving these facilities. In several faculty members’ viewpoints, there is concern that the school district had removed several employees for budgetary concerns, and now facilities are being built. The school district has several science labs that are not to standards, and an athletic facility in poor condition creating a health hazard. Due to the 4x4 standards, and four years of science is required; many of the districts older science labs did not have ventilation systems and poor plumbing. The field house facilities are considered a health issue due to the increasing numbers of staph infections. There are holes in the walls and ventilation is not adequate. It is recommended to secure funds to remodel the existing science labs to a working condition. This will allow students more space for learning, and not having to switch around classrooms to participate in laboratory experiences. The field house needs to be renovated or replaced and incorporate building materials that are easily cleaned and sanitized. Involvement with the strategic planning committee has allowed the witnessing of the needs of the district. New science labs will inspire students to learn, as well as increase the morale of teachers utilizing an improved facility. Evaluation will be formulated in improved student learning, as well as increased teacher morale. Evaluation of the field house facilities will be gauged through the health records for decreased staph infections. An evaluation of the upkeep and sanitary conditions will be included.

The Superintendent is the only certified person at Central Office for a 4A school district. District does not have an Assistant Superintendent or Business Manager. The school district should evaluate the budget, and align with the TASB personnel audit that was conducted. Due to cutbacks in funding, the school district lost several employees due to layoffs, but key positions have not been replaced. It is recommended that an Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations be hired to allow the Superintendent to focus on the CEO duties for the school district. The need for improved efficiency will be evaluated whenever the needed positions are filled. Specific personnel will be able to manage particular aspects of the school, and keep the Superintendent informed of needs and strategies.