Read 'Our Voices, Our Schools'

This month's interview is with Annie Tronco. Annie is a Beginning Teacher Mentor and Program Facilitator in the Hillsboro School District. Annie shares with us the impact of mentoring new teachers. 

Coalition for Quality Teaching & Learning responds to national report

The Oregon Coalition for Quality Teaching and Learning - a state partner of the National Commission for Teaching and America's Future - has released a response to Oregon's low score in Education Week's "Quality Counts 2010" report. The Coalition's response acknlowledges areas for improvement and also explains why the condition of teaching in Oregon is not as dire as suggested in the report. Read the Coalition's Response.

Chalkboard updates: 

Teacher Effectiveness Update: Collaborating for Student Success
Governor Appoints Professional Development Commission
Empowering and Supporting Students - Updated Teacher's Blog
2010 Legislative Update
Education Pioneer Joins Chalkboard Staff
Bend-La Pine Schools Committed to Boosting Achievement

"Collaborating for student Success"

This month's Teacher Effectiveness Update highlights Part 1 of the "2009 MetLife Survey of the American Teacher: Collaborating for Student Success." Based on a survey of both teachers and administrators, "Part 1: Effective Teaching and Leadership" offers a snapshot of what collaboration looks like in schools. Read the March Teacher Effectiveness Update.

gov appoints professional development commission

In 2009 the Oregon Legislature voted to create an easy-access, online database of professional development opportunitites and resources for teachers. Senate Bill 443 called for a Governor-appointed commission to direct the development of the clearinghouse. See a list of the newly-appointed commission members.

read the newest posts on our teacher's blog

The topic of empowerment is one that I have discussed many times with my male students. As a teacher, one of the best moments to share with students is when the "light bulb" goes on and they transition from being controlled by the text to becoming empowered by the text!...Read the rest of Melissa's post. 

Over the past three weeks, five bright, beautiful 7th grade girls have approached me on separate occasions. Each one beginning with a timid, “Ms. Dickson, can I talk to you about something?” These young women have shocked me with their stories (depression, suicidal thoughts/actions, eating disorders, sexual abuse, and childhood traumas) and inspired me with their courage...Read Mollie's post.

2010 Legislative update

With the 2010 special session having just ended, our February Policy Update offers a recap of recent legislative victories for education in Oregon. Learn about legislation regarding Oregon's mentoring program, professional development for educators, and a newly approved Task Force on Education Career Preparation and Development in the February Policy Update.

Education pioneer joins chalkboard staff

Dan Jamison, current Sherwood School District Superintendent, will bring his experience and leadership to the Chalkboard Project beginning August 1st in the role of Vice President of Education Policy. Kate Dickson, who currently holds the position, is leaving Oregon to begin a year of travels with her husband. She will continue to provide strategic council to the Chalkboard Project while on the road. Read the full press release.


Bend-La Pine schools Committed to Boosting Achievement

Bend-La Pine Superintendent Ron Wilkinson writes about performance evaluation and student achievement as a guest columnist in The Bend Bulletin. Wilkinson discusses the benefits and difficulties of linking student achievement with teacher performance and explains why it's about more than "merit pay" and sound bites. Read Wilkinson's column.