On January 18, 2023, T-TAC ODU hosted The VESOL Alliance at the Newport News Marriott. This unique professional learning event offered a range of high-interest sessions and free resources to over 80 attendees from across regions 2 & 3. Our expert presenters shared VESOL-referenced lesson plans that can be used to engage learners of all ages. If you were not able… Read More Innovative Strategies for VESOL Instruction
New VESOL Mathematics Resources Available!
Implementation of the 2021 Mathematics Virginia Essentialized Standards of Learning (VESOLs) has heightened the need for more mathematics resources that can be used by teachers who utilize these standards. Guidance is needed to answer questions such as: 1) What background knowledge is needed in order to effectively teach each math concept? 2) What should students… Read More New VESOL Mathematics Resources Available!
The Simple View of Reading: There are TWO Factors to the Equation
In their Science of Reading Defining Guide, the Reading League (2021) tells us “The science of reading is a vast, interdisciplinary body of scientifically-based research about reading and issues related to reading and writing.” Further, among explanation of what the science of reading is NOT, the Reading League asserts, it is not “a single, specific… Read More The Simple View of Reading: There are TWO Factors to the Equation
Keeping Up with the Virginia Literacy Act
Did you know that 3 out of 4 students (grades K-2) in Virginia are reported to be at medium to high risk for not being able to read at grade level? In response to recent early literacy data, The Virginia Literacy Act was passed to ensure all students K-3 will receive evidence-based literacy instruction and… Read More Keeping Up with the Virginia Literacy Act
Promoting a Math-Positive School Culture
The beginning of a new school year is a great time to reflect upon practices in your school. Our attitudes about math as teachers and school leaders can have a tremendous impact on our students’ attitudes and views about learning mathematics. Below are two ways that a math-positive culture can be promoted at your school…. Read More Promoting a Math-Positive School Culture
Doing What Works: Five Evidence-Based Strategies to Specially Design Mathematics Instruction
When considering instructional activities for mathematics, teachers should focus on strategies that have evidence to support their effectiveness. The Virginia Department of Education, building on the work of the Institute for Education Sciences (IES), has identified five evidence-based strategies to specially-design mathematics instruction: 1. Explicit Instruction 2. Formal Mathematical Language 3. Concrete, Representational, and Abstract… Read More Doing What Works: Five Evidence-Based Strategies to Specially Design Mathematics Instruction
National PTA Standards for Successful Family-School Partnerships
National PTA Standards for Successful Family-School Partnerships: In an effort to build and sustain positive family-school partnerships, the National PTA has developed six standards focused on ensuring that schools are welcoming, supportive, collaborative, and responsive to families’ needs. This resource outlines the six national school-family partnership standards and provides an implementation guide for each as… Read More National PTA Standards for Successful Family-School Partnerships