The Salem School Division is one of just 25 school districts in the nation to be selected and then studied as part of the Innovative Successful Practices Project that was orchestrated by the American Association of School Administrators. It is a mouthful to be sure, but what it means is that Salem Schools are on the cutting edge when it comes to shaping the future of education for our 21st century learners.
“We have a culture of innovation that goes back to our roots,” says Dr. Alan Seibert, Salem Superintendent of Schools. “The division was born 35 years ago from a restlessness that carries over to today and is still evident in how our amazing teachers operate to engage and inspire young people.”
Back in February, representatives from the Successful Practices Network spent several days in Salem observing our students and teachers at all levels. The “White Paper” report released this month names Salem and Virginia Beach as the only divisions in the state to receive this honor.
“Our visitors were struck by the high level of student engagement that exists in all schools and the way students were co-creating the learning experience with their teachers,” says Jennifer Dean, Director of Instructional Technology and Accountability for Salem.
Salem’s innovative and progressive strategies for teaching and learning resonated with those in charge of the project. The committee was especially impressed with the proactive approach the division uses to work ahead of the established norms by empowering its teachers to innovate, while still adhering to the division’s core values.
“We are fortunate to have teachers who are not satisfied with being good enough,” says Curtis Hicks, Salem Assistant Superintendent. “They are constantly honing their skills and fine-tuning their craft to ensure that they are providing learning environments that ensure that every student experiences high levels of engagement and success.”
You can read the entire “White Paper” report on the Salem School Division at this link.
Educating in Reality – Not in Denial.
