About the Webinar:
In this presentation, the Department’s Bureau of School Improvement discussed how to leverage a vision for high-quality instruction to identify, prioritize, and define look-fors to accelerate student achievement.
Aligning and Defining Instructional Look-Fors
Presenter:
- Angie Mahone, Assistant State Director, Bureau of School Improvement, Florida Department of Education
- Dustin Sims, Lead State Executive Director, School Improvement, Florida Department of Education
Date/Time: November 19, 2024
Conference: 2024 FL Charter School Conference
View The Recording:
Handouts / Slides:
Download File
Session Summary
This presentation, "Aligning and Defining Instructional Look-Fors," by Angie Mahone and Dustin Sims of the Florida Department of Education, provides a practical framework for school leaders to enhance instructional practices and accelerate student achievement. The session begins with an engaging example of a dance instructor, prompting the audience to consider the essential elements of effective instruction.
The presenters then delve into the concept of "look-fors," which are defined as specific indicators that define instructional practices within high-quality instruction. They emphasize the importance of aligning these look-fors with the school's vision for high-quality instruction and school improvement plan. By identifying and prioritizing key instructional practices, schools can focus their efforts on the areas that will have the greatest impact on student learning.
The presentation also emphasizes the need to clearly define what "evident" and "not evident" look like for each instructional look-for. This clarity allows for more focused feedback and support for teachers. The presenters provide real-life examples from schools that have successfully implemented this process, demonstrating how this approach can lead to powerful conversations and improved instructional practices.
A key takeaway from this session is the importance of moving beyond generic evaluation tools and creating a tailored approach to instructional improvement. By grounding their look-fors in research-based practices and aligning them with their school's specific needs, schools can create a shared vision for instructional excellence. The presenters encourage schools to continually refine their look-fors to ensure they remain relevant and impactful.
The presenters conclude by highlighting the transformative potential of this framework. By focusing on high-quality Tier 1 instruction, schools can reduce the need for remediation and intervention, allowing for more time to be dedicated to reinforcing core concepts. This approach empowers teachers to deliver targeted instruction that meets the needs of all learners, ultimately leading to accelerated student achievement.