Prioritizing literacy, numeracy, student engagement, mental health and critical thinking in educational plan

ECA Review/Submitted

The Clearview Public Schools board has approved the 2023-2026 educational plan. “The plan was developed after consultation with Clearview’s leadership team, staff, family and communities,” according to the board highlights.

The focus on literacy and numeracy has been chosen after discussion at multiple meetings and data showing that these areas need improvement.

According to the educational plan, the ability to read and write effectively and use and understand numbers “are fundamental skills that allow students to comprehend and engage with other subjects.”

According to the educational plan, the STAR literacy data “shows a decrease in grade equivalency as students get older.”

The literacy assessment data shows a higher percentage of students in the below-average and poor categories while students are above the provincial average on Grade 6 and 9 English Language Arts Provincial Achievement Tests.

The education plan outlines that literacy and numeracy will continue to be a focus.

The Math Intervention/Programming Instrument data also shows that students fall behind in math skills as they continue their education. Students are above average on the Grade 6 mathematics Provincial Achievement Tests but below average on the Grade 9 test.

Clearview Public Schools board also believes student engagement is essential as the level of interest, involvement and motivation a student has towards their education can help them achieve higher grades and pursue further education.

Clearview School Division aims to enhance the educational experience by implementing various initiatives. They plan to provide fine arts programs and extra-curricular activities in all junior and senior high schools.

The Deputy Superintendent Daram Van Oers will collaborate with high schools to develop a career development plan, seek grants to enhance dual credit opportunities and work with local municipalities to establish dual credit partnerships.

Furthermore, they plan to partner with CAREERS to hire an Office-Campus/Careers Liaison, further supporting students’ career pathways.

Mental health

Clearview Public Schools has also recognized that mental health impacts student engagement.

They are implementing strategies such as having Family School Liaison working at every school and having staff trained in Mental Health Literacy.

The board has also determined critical thinking is linked to student engagement, and they will continue to work on it through the student engagement goals.

Article published by East Central Alberta Review