Turnaround Practices in Achievement Gain Schools: John J. Doran Community School

Summary

The John J. Doran School in Fall River, Massachusetts, transformed from a traditional, teacher-directed environment into a collaborative, student-centered learning space. Identified as a Turnaround School in 2010, the school emphasized the importance of community, reflection, and data-driven instruction. Key initiatives included implementing morning meetings and accountable talk, fostering productive classroom interactions. The staff committed to ongoing collaboration and personal growth, believing that all students can learn. This cultural shift focused on empowering teachers and students alike, ultimately creating a supportive environment that addresses the unique challenges faced by its diverse student body.

Takeaways

• 📚 The John J. Doran School serves a high-needs population, including many English Language Learners and students with disabilities.
• 🔄 The school was identified as a Turnaround School in 2010 and has made significant progress in student achievement since then.
• 🗣️ The transition from a teacher-centered to a student-centered approach emphasized 'productive noise' and collaboration among students.
• 👩‍🏫 Morning meetings have been instrumental in fostering community, helping teachers gauge student needs, and teaching social skills.
• 📊 Data-driven decision-making has become a key practice, with teachers utilizing data walls and student folders to track progress.
• 🤝 A culture of collaboration among staff has been established, allowing teachers to share strategies and support one another in their professional growth.
• 🌟 The focus on accountable talk has encouraged students to engage in meaningful discussions and take ownership of their learning.
• 📈 The staff engaged in reflective practices to evaluate their strengths and areas for improvement, promoting a commitment to student success.
• 🏫 The school's leadership emphasized self-transformation over external intervention, empowering staff to create change from within.
• 💪 The belief that every child can learn is central to the school's philosophy, driving continuous improvement and fostering a supportive educational environment.

Q & A

What is the John J. Doran School, and what grades does it serve?

The John J. Doran School is a Kindergarten through eighth grade school located in Fall River, Massachusetts.

What challenges does the John J. Doran School face?

The school serves a high needs population, including many English Language Learners, low-income students, and students with disabilities.

What significant change did the Doran School undergo in 2010?

In 2010, the school was identified as a Turnaround School and made significant achievement gains over its three-year turnaround period.

How did the approach to teaching at Doran School change?

The teaching approach shifted from being teacher-driven and worksheet-oriented to fostering student engagement and productive noise, encouraging collaboration and discussion among students.

What role did 'Morning Meeting' play in the school's transformation?

Morning Meeting transformed the school by recognizing all children, teaching social skills, and allowing teachers to gauge students' readiness and needs.

What is 'accountable talk,' and why was it implemented?

Accountable talk is a method used to encourage student interaction and discussion, helping them engage with one another rather than just listening to the teacher.

How did the staff assess their readiness to meet the needs of their students?

The staff collectively reflected on their attributes, identifying qualities such as commitment, investment, and willingness to learn necessary for working in a high-needs environment.

What mindset shift is emphasized by Linda Martin-Isherwood for schools undergoing transformation?

The mindset should focus on what educators can do to reach each child, rather than on what the child cannot do, fostering the belief that every child can learn.

How did the school track and document its progress?

The school implemented systems for tracking data, with teachers maintaining data walls and conducting student data conferences to empower students in their learning.

What was the significance of collaboration among staff at Doran School?

Collaboration and transparency among staff were crucial for improving teaching practices, with teachers regularly meeting to discuss student work, data, and develop action plans.