The state of Michigan adopted the Common Core Standards for English Language Arts nearly ten years ago. As professionals, our understanding of the intent of the standards has deepened over time. Additionally, we have gained greater knowledge around culturally relevant pedagogies, designing for learner variability, and effective assessment practices. In the March 2019 publication of
Educational Leadership
, Mike Schmoker reminds us that “[t]here is a "mountain of evidence" (Sahm, 2017) that implementing a coherent, content-rich curriculum may be the most foundational element of effective schooling and has the greatest impact on students' learning, reading ability, and life chances.” With this in mind, it is time for middle school English educators to engage in a critical review and revision of our curriculum—the MAISA units of study. Middle School English Language Arts educators across the state are encouraged to apply to be a part of this revision process.
Who:
Looking for nine 6th-8th Grade ELA teachers, teacher leaders, and consultants from across the state of Michigan
When:
Beginning Monday, August 19th, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where:
Oakland County Tech Campus
Following dates include,
- September 24, 2019
- October 23, 2019
- November 20, 2019
- December 2019 - TBD
- January 23, 2020
- February 14, 2020
- March 23, 2020
- April 21, 2020
and will take place at Oakland Schools Campus, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Why:
1. Leverage the talents and experience of Michigan's literacy educators, 2. Provide a free, guaranteed, and viable curriculum to middle school ELA teachers across the state of Michigan, 3. Provide a culturally relevant, balanced approach to literacy instruction that aligns with adolescents research, 4. Increase teachers' capacity for improved instruction and curriculum design.