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Triad creates initiatives for students, teachers

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By Craig Meredith, Triad Superintendent 11:04 PM Saturday, November 7, 2009

I am excited to write about three initiatives that we are developing this year at Triad.

First, at the high school we have 90 students being given access to such courses as college preparatory chemistry, German, digital photography, high school English, and personal finance.

A fully credentialed teacher is working with these students on a daily basis to help facilitate their success through a cutting-edge on-line curriculum that provides real time access to a highly qualified teacher credentialed in each subject area.

In addition, an extended day supervised lab is in place to allow students to have support and computer access outside the typical school day. This program is our first step in a credit flexibility program that state law requires districts to have in place for the 2010-11 school year.

A second initiative being developed is a virtual enrichment program that is being piloted within a third grade classroom at Triad Elementary. It is a collaborative effort between the Madison Champaign County ESC, the gifted education specialist assigned to Triad, and a Triad third grade teacher. The educators involved have received development in how to develop on-line enrichment opportunities to help extend the learning of students.

The third initiative that I would like to mention is a district-wide professional development program for teachers on effective assessment practices. Successful student learning is dependent on three key components — curriculum, instruction, and assessment. The work by learning communities at each of our schools on the topic of assessment is being used to provide teachers with the tools they need to measure student achievement.

We believe we must develop the ability of our students to problem solve individually and cooperatively so they are ready for the 21st century workforce. By doing this, Triad will become a district of excellence with distinction through our steadfast determination.

Craig M. Meredith is superintendent of Triad Local Schools.

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