High marks on school climate and culture

A recent report by the state shows that students in Butler District 53 are being nurtured, classes are challenging and engaging and parents and teachers are strong partners. The report, called the 5Essentials, are key elements of the effectiveness of a school. The areas also play a critical part in school improvement efforts. The five areas are key essential issues critical to schools and improvement efforts: 1. Effective Leaders 2. Collaborative Teachers 3. Involved Families 4. Supportive Environment 5. Ambitious Instruction Superintendent Dr. Heidi Wennstrom said she embraced the report as it gives critical information on areas of focus for the District. In three years of the survey, trend data show that there were improvements in virtually all areas. “I’m thrilled our performance has grown tremendously,” she said. Data from the survey is from parent, staff and student (grades 6-8) questionnaires; however, there were not enough responses from parents to warrant integrating parent results into the data. Here are some highlights from the report: Butler Junior High * Across most areas, Butler Junior High was give higher points than in previous years. * Students rated teachers highly on instruction, academic preparation and rigor: With a high score of 99 (out of 100), students rated instruction as well defined. They also said teachers had clear expectations, class was interactive and teachers were encouraging. * Students also ranked the environment of the school as exceptionally high. Students reported that they felt safe, they find that teachers are trustworthy and respond to their needs. Students value hard work and teachers motivate them. * Butler showed strong marks for involved families. Parents are as seen as partners in helping students learn. Parents’ input is valued and they are part of decision making in the school. Brook Forest * Effective leadership has been strong in all of the last three years of the survey. This shows that teachers trust the principal and that instructional leadership is effective. * Results on collaborative practices show strong growth in the last three years. This means that teachers work together to review assessment data and develop instructional strategies. * Results show continued high marks for involved families. Parents are seen as partners and support efforts to strengthen the school. The school also creates opportunities for parents to participate.