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Use available school system documents, including compilations of Scope and Sequence documents, as a basis for staff review and discussion. Explore the extent to which identified indicators are already being taught--and the extent to which instruction needs to be enhanced. Create study and inquiry groups to explore the implications of the MSPAP assessments for instructional modification. Use both content-specific and interdisciplinary groupings to investigate potential instructional interventions and modifications. Use a Jig Saw technique in which expert groups are formed to analyze and become well versed in all aspects of MSPAP. Use the action research process to identify potential investigation questions related to the MSPAP implementation process. Develop a data collection process and an action plan that can be monitored to track program implementation success. Acquire the videotape, "An Educated Guess," from either the Department of Staff Development or the Department of Program Development. Have staff discuss MSPAP and its implications for instruction across the school and in the content areas. Invite MSDE and school system representatives to attend parent and community member outreach sessions to provide information on how MSPAP data are used. Access the Maryland State Department of Education web site for additional information: www.msde.state.md.us.
Make certain that all staff understand the design, content, and implications of school system Scope and Sequence documents. Build consensus about how these documents can be used to articulate the MSPAP and instructional design implications associated with them.
Build preparation for the MSPAP into your school improvement planning process. In particular, ensure that this process is collaborative, involving the total staff beyond just the four identified subject areas of English, social studies, mathematics, and science. Explore as part of this process the extent to which you have ways to monitor student achievement related to the MSPAP learning indicators.
Ensure that all staff can articulate to parents and community members the design of performance assessments and MSPAP as well as ways in which the school system and school are preparing students to achieve success on them.
