Superintendent Outlines Academic Plan

Superintendent Dr. Paul Fried outlined his vision for the 2012-2013 school year in a presentation given at a meeting held Tuesday evening at .

A PowerPoint outlined some of the planned changes, including new classes and new start times for two of the schools.

Fried said the district's aims include providing opportunities for all students, teacher effectiveness and professional development, rigorous student-centered learning, inclusionary practices and collaboration and competitiveness.

• Lazar Middle School would have an integrated language arts literacy program, with 84 minutes of instruction by the same teacher instead of two separate classes. Honors level students would be taught by two teachers who would plan and integrate instruction and curriculum.
• The middle school's elective enrichment cycle would be revised to give all Grade 6 students an inquiry-based research class for one marking period.
• Modify tracks:

Social Studies 7
Social Studies 7 Honors

Science 7
Science 7 Honors

Math 7
Math 7 Pre-Algebra
Math 7 Pre-Algebra Honors

• Algebra or geometry course offering to all Grade 9 students—all ninth-graders take algebra or geometry with exception of those requiring particular modifications.
• Creation of a science research program—Introduction of a three-year science research program beginning with a limited number of 2012-2013 sophomore students.
• Implement a state-mandated financial literacy course—2.5 credits (semester course) in the area of financial literacy for all students entering their junior year in 2012-2013.

Special Education

• Create in-district Life Skills Program at Lazar
• Create in-dsitrict Behavioral Disabilities Program at Lazar
• Accept out of district students into Life Skills Program at the high school

Elementary Schools

• Development of a World Language Initiative—Pilot a World Language instructional program in all primary classrooms (K-1-2) in all five elementary schools.

Technology Support

• New full-time district-wide Educational Techonology Specialist to oversee the educational aspects of our technology program

Technology Equipment

• Teacher laptops at Lazar Middle School and Montville Township High School
• All in one computers for all five elementary computer labs
• Replacement of oldest computers with new model computers
• Address issues with timely installation of computers and overall printer challenges

Athletics

• Support to the Athletic Program—Addition of a part-time Athletic Trainer to provide the level of care required by athletes

Professional Development

• Multi-year professional development intitative focused on differentiated instruction—In collaboration with the district Local Professional Development Committee, the district will focus on professional development initiatives. As teachers work with an increasingly diverse student body, differentiating instruction for all students holds greater importance.

Modification of School Day

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