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The GCS administration structures
systematic professional development in
order to establish rigorous academic
standards and to support teachers in
implementing a challenging,
standards−based curriculum. GCS calendars
five full days for professional development
each year and conducts two−hour
professional development meetings on
Thursdays.
Professional development at GCS includes
orientation and topics relating to curriculum
and instruction, data analysis, safety and
emergency procedures, special education
and character education. Curricular and
instructional topics selected by the
administration are assessment−driven and
aligned with school−wide learning
expectations.
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Assessments used to drive professional development include
informal and formal assessment:
daily assignments, teacher observation, writing portfolios, and teacher−generated quizzes and
tests, student presentations and required benchmark and STAR testing data. The selection of
topics is also influenced by the interests and needs of the teachers as they reflect on
curriculum development, instructional strategies and their current student population.
Professional development is led by the Principal, Assistant Principal, the ELD Coordinator, a
master teacher sharing best practices or an outside consultant.
Teachers at Gabriella Charter School are highly qualified
and committed to ongoing professional
growth. The Assistant Principal heads teaching training, using both regular informal classroom
visits and bi−annual formal observations and evaluations as opportunities to reflect with
teachers on their practice. Also a trained BTSA coach, the Assistant Principal meets separately
with new teachers to provide them with individualized induction plans that support
standards−based teaching and differentiated instruction. Teachers also observe each
other,
collaborating both at grade level and across grade levels. Cross grade level curriculum
development helps to build continuity of academic content, school−wide behavioral standards,
academic vocabulary and performance expectations. Teachers share lesson plans, instructional
materials, booklists, internet resources and behavior charts for individual reinforcement of
positive behavior goals
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About Us
