What is the Escambia Learning Model?

Introduction

Video Transcript

The Escambia Learning Model, or the ELM brings teaching and learning best practices under one umbrella. It defines our standard for what instruction should be so that all of our learners, students and adults succeed. The ELM has four components. Building a strong foundation in all content areas, from the arts to workforce education. Engaging learners so they see the purpose in what they are learning and can own it. Employing methods that make instruction clear so learners grasp concepts more easily. Providing varied ways that students can respond to show what they know. These are the principles of UDL and they result in motivated, resourceful, goal oriented learners who will find success. The Escambia learning model is designed to change the statistic that half of our students are not proficient in reading and math. We also have subgroups of students that will greatly benefit from the ELM. Federal law ensures that all students receive a well-rounded education. Right now, many of our schools have students performing at the federal index below 41%. We can change that. We increase student achievement for all by doing what works, by sharing common evidence based practices that make learning visible. The Escambia Learning Model encompasses best practices for providing feedback, explicitly teaching and scaffolding, providing collaborative discussions, and for helping both adults and students believe in our success. We are united for every student to succeed.

Escambia Learning Model Focus

The Escambia Learning Model prioritizes student achievement, growth, and well-being. It is a standard of teaching excellence encompassing evidence-based educational best practices for the success of all students. This framework integrates principles from the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and strategies from Get Better Faster and Teach Like A Champion that have been proven effective through research and experience. It aims to meet the diverse needs of students and promote excellence in teaching. It allows us to tailor our methods in support of student learning and achievement across all subjects and grade levels.

The ECPS Learning Model is designed to align with our vision, "United for every student to succeed." It is a commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive educational environment where all students can thrive academically and personally.

The Right Thing vs. One More Thing

The best practices this model embraces are not new and many of you already harness the power of these practices. This is not adding “one more thing” but this is focusing on the “right thing.” We believe that through this process you will feel empowered in what is occurring in the classroom. But we also believe it is important to constantly grow and refine our teaching skills. These additional practices can be added to your teacher toolbox to increase student achievement.

Escambia Learning Model Modules

You will have the opportunity to participate in three Canvas modules throughout the year that will each span 12 weeks. Each professional learning module is aligned with one of the principles of UDL: Engagement, Representation, and Action & Expression. These principles serve as a guide for understanding the "WHY," "WHAT," and "HOW" of learning. During these modules, teachers will be provided opportunities to learn, implement, reflect, and revise their work along the common thread of UDL and best practices. The practices will impact all learners but will be especially impactful for students with disabilities and other struggling ESSA subgroups. The professional learning content will give you time to observe the practices in action, go through a deeper study of the practice and impact on students, and allow teachers to practice the implementation in their own classroom and reflect on the impact. In this learning cycle, you will be analyzing student work and collaborating with your peers in a PLC-type model.

Academic Standard Connection

ELA.K12.EE.1.1 Cite evidence to explain and justify reasoning.

ELA.K12.EE.4.1 Use appropriate collaborative techniques and active listening skills when engaging in discussions in a variety of situations.

MA.K12.MTR.1.1 Actively participate in effortful learning both individually and collectively.

Florida Principal Leadership Standards (FPLS)

Domain 2: Student Learning as a Priority: Effective school leaders demonstrate that student learning is their top priority through leadership actions that build and support a learning organization focused on student success.

a. Enables faculty and staff to work as a system focused on student learning

d. Engages faculty and staff in efforts to close learning performance gaps among student subgroups within the school