Small Learning Communities are like schools within schools. This structure allows for true grade-level teaming, with a Small Learning Community Leader (SLCL) functioning as an instructional coach. The SLCL supports all members of the team on great instruction, classroom management and the team’s culture.
Teams of grade level teachers have 90 minutes of common planning time each day.
Most elementary schools have five teams. Because of differences in the size and numbers of sections at some schools, the teaming configurations may vary.
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Pre-K-K team
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1st and 2nd grade team
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3rd and 4th grade team
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5th and 6th grade team
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7th and 8th grade team
Small Learning Communities (SLC) will meet as a team at least twice weekly
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Tuesday for 30 to 45 minutes to discuss the team’s student climate, culture and discipline
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Wednesday for 60 to 90 minutes for professional learning using the Whole Faculty Study Group structure
Small Learning Community teachers will have some autonomy in the scheduling and grouping of the students on their team
Team identities, college themes, hallway and classroom decorations and other motivational systems can be put in place by the students and teachers of each Small Learning Community.