Certification process sparks school-wide change in Michigan school
Model Coordinator Megan Jones says the Certification process has sparked a new interest in fully implementing Accelerated Reader. As a result, the school has seen improvements on state assessment scores.
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The changes at South Godwin Elementary School over the past three years can be likened to the metamorphosis of a chrysalis. What started as an unassuming shell, soon developed into a tight-knit group of teachers and students, and an accomplished school emerged. This incredible transformation can be attributed to the introduction of Renaissance Certification.
Megan Jones, who has earned Model Coordinator Certification, brought previous coordinator experience with her when she started at South Godwin Elementary in Wyoming, Michigan. "When I came to South Godwin three years ago, Model and Master Classroom Certification was unheard of," said Jones. "Most teachers only scratched the surface with Renaissance implementation, doing only the bare minimum required. I came
to South Godwin with a positive attitude and a willingness to create a Renaissance committee."
Jones' new committee of volunteers met twice per month to discuss the needs of students and teachers, develop new implementation strategies, review student data, analyze Status of the Class reports, plan school-wide celebrations to commemorate student successes, and strategize how to achieve Model and Master Classroom Certification.
"Once one classroom achieved Model Classroom status, other teachers would ask me, 'How do I get a pennant for my door?' Not only did that teacher inspire others through the pennant, but I also had a traveling trophy for those classrooms with Model or Master status," Jones said.
After South Godwin achieved Model School Certification, the Superintendent, and Assistant Superintendent visited each class to present a new book for the classroom library, and certificates of achievement to each student.
With the revamp of the school’s AR's implementation, came a dramatic increase in students' proficiency scores on the Michigan State Report Card. From 2005–2007, South Godwin’s Language Arts score increased over 45%. In addition, Standard and Poor also recognized Godwin Heights in 2005–2006 as outperforming other districts with like demographics. "Our school is now successful using AR because the culture has changed," Jones said. "We have people willing to implement it correctly, and as a result, they see good results.'
Teachers are also rewarded with monthly drawings for maintaining Master Classroom status with incentives, including attendance at Renaissance Learning professional development sessions, new technology equipment for their classroom, or $1,500 worth of classroom books.
"My most important role as the AR Coordinator is monitoring classroom progress and finding ways to motivate staff and students," Jones said. "I work harder knowing that they are subconsciously depending on me to guide them. Becoming a Model Coordinator has reaffirmed my belief in the power of Accelerated Reader."
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