Guided Self-Study Report

Name of School: Olive J. Dodge Elementary School Address: 2615 Longleaf Drive Mobile, Alabama 36693 Phone: 251-221-1195 251-221-1197 (fax) Principal: Doris Tillman dctillma@mcpss.com Assistant Principals: Bregetta Montgomery Bunny Sayler School Improvement Team Members: Leslie Louden, Chairman Lynn Garner Debbie Turner Cathy Alexander Vicki Giles Dawn Walker Lynn Pryor Carol Taylor Torrey Berry Terri Connor Lori Mitchell Jeanne Griffin Kathryn Williams Kathleen Auer Debbie Guy Alyson Hinckle Cathy Lewis

Table of Contents

Section 1: Guided Self-Study Procedures Section 2: Accreditation Standards Section 3: School Action for Excellence Plan Section 4: Quality Assurance

Section 1:

Guided Self-Study Procedures

Section 1: Guided Self-Study Procedures

The School Action for Excellence (SAE) committee at Olive J. Dodge Elementary School worked together with the administrators, internal facilitator, teachers, staff, parents, students, and community members to conduct the 2006-2007 Guided Self-Study. The process began when the internal facilitator and two SAE committee members attended the SACS CASI Next Generation workshops in the spring and fall of 2006. Under their leadership, committees were formed and a timeline for completion of the Guided Self-Study was established. SAE committee members were appointed chairpersons for the SACS ten standards for accreditation committees. The chairpersons worked with stakeholders to gather information necessary to provide evidence of compliance with each standard. The standards and supporting evidence were presented to the faculty for approval. The School Action for Excellence (SAE) Plan was prepared by the SAE committee and is included in the Guided Self-Study report. The SAE Plan was developed using data from federal, state, district, and school-based reports. Significant findings throughout the process include the following: 1) Olive J. Dodge continues to offer its students a quality education which includes academics as well as a variety of extra-curricular activities. 2) Olive J. Dodge continues to have a successful working relationship with parents and the community. 3) The 2006 – 2007 Adequate Yearly Progress Report states that Olive J. Dodge met 21 goals out of 21 (100%). 4) The 2005 – 2006 Alabama Direct Assessment of Writing scores show significant increases in the number of students meeting or exceeding proficiency. 5) All teachers have attained Highly Qualified status. The administrators, internal facilitator, and SACS committee members provided leadership throughout the Guided Self-Study process by maintaining the focus and offering assistance when needed. Stakeholders served on committees and offered valuable assistance throughout the process. Information was shared with stakeholders during faculty meetings, PTA meetings, small group meetings, individual contacts, the school website, and the school newsletter. The Guided Self-Study was a beneficial process that provided an opportunity to review every aspect of Olive J. Dodge Elementary School. The results of the school/culture survey indicated that this school has high expectations for teachers and administrators. The school/culture survey further indicated that the professional staff at this school uses their talents and knowledge to help each other with challenges and needs. The results of the parent/community survey indicated that parents strongly agree that the school staff informs them about their child’s work and they strongly agree that the school informs them of upcoming activities and events. The results of the student survey indicated that students know that they are expected to follow school rules and they know that they have access to school computers.

Section 2: Accreditation Standards

Standard 1: Beliefs and Mission The school communicates a vision, statement of beliefs, and mission that provide a focus for improving the performance of both the students and the school. Teachers, parents, students, and stakeholders worked collaboratively to review the mission and beliefs of Olive J. Dodge Elementary School. The mission and beliefs provide the focus and direction for instruction, student learning, and school operations. The beliefs and mission are reviewed annually using current research, best practices, and feedback from all stakeholders. The Olive J. Dodge mission statement is posted in every classroom and in the school office. It is also included in the student handbook and on the school website. The vision was adopted system-wide for Mobile County Public Schools and is displayed in the school entrance. Vision We take responsibility for the success of every student. Mission The mission of Dodge School is to provide all students with a quality education which will allow them to become productive citizens. This will be accomplished by dedicated staff, families, and a community committed to success. Beliefs 1. A child’s education is the joint responsibility of family, staff, and the community. 2. Students should become lifelong learners. 3. Students should be challenged in all academic areas. This includes teaching students problem-solving skills and their application to everyday experiences. 4. Teachers need professional development time to provide an educational environment that reflects current research and trends in education. 5. Students should be taught core values such as respect for self and others, respect for cultural differences, pride in the community, and honesty. 6. Stakeholders should be provided the opportunity for input before major changes are implemented. 7. Students should be provided with an educational climate that is conducive to learning. 8. Students learn in different ways and learn best when they are actively engaged in the learning process. Therefore, they should be provided with a variety of instructional strategies to support their learning.

Standard 2: Governance and Leadership The school and governing board promote the capacity of stakeholders to improve student learning by providing appropriate leadership, governance, and organization. In fulfillment of this standard, Olive J. Dodge Elementary operates under a governing board, which adopts policies and procedures that provide for the effective operation of the school. All policies, procedures, and regulations set forth by the Mobile County School Board are enforced at the local school. The board appoints a superintendent who oversees the daily operations of the system and carries out policies set by the board. The Board preserves the right of the school to govern itself by allowing the school to write a school improvement plan and apply funds as prescribed in the plan and to develop a local uniform policy and a crisis management plan. The policies and procedures for pupil responsibility and conduct are stated clearly in the Code of Conduct booklet given to students at the beginning of the year and signed by parents. Olive J. Dodge Elementary School has the unique distinction of being selected by the Mobile County School Board as a Site–Based Managed School. Many decisions concerning the school are made at the local level through the functioning of the School Action for Excellence (SAE) committee. The administrative team at Olive J. Dodge Elementary is permitted to implement policies and procedures without interference. The school administration maintains the school’s vision and mission and focuses on improving student learning, encouraging teacher initiative, and building relationships with parents and community stakeholders. The school administration works with stakeholders to design a School Action for Excellence (SAE) Plan. Through this plan, funds and services are allocated to ensure the attainment of goals set forth in the SAE Plan. The student handbook, the uniform policy, and the mission statement further define the goals and expectations that support student learning and promote good citizenship. The school administration ensures that the curriculum is enacted, supported, and assessed by using the Software Technology Incorporated (STI) management system to review lesson plans and grades. The school leaders also perform classroom observations, lead data meetings, have conferences with instructional staff, and review student data related to achievement, attendance, and discipline. The school website enables the administration to monitor classroom and homework assignments as well as classroom projects. The faculty and staff are involved in decisions that affect the school by serving on the School Action for Excellence (SAE) committee and other school committees. The administration allocates and aligns the human, instructional, financial, and physical resources to support student learning as evidenced by the SAE Plan. The school works as a learning community. Faculty and staff attend on-site workshops, participate in online training, and attend district, state, and national workshops. After being trained, faculty members become trainers for the local school, school district, state and neighboring states.

The Crisis Management Plan provides evidence of well-developed emergency procedures that are reviewed and practiced throughout the year. Fire drills and tornado drills are practiced regularly. Lockdown codes are reviewed and school maps are posted to show exit routes for classrooms. The administration exercises control and discretion over all curricular and extra–curricular activities sponsored by Olive J. Dodge Elementary.

Standard 3: Curriculum The school offers a research-based curriculum that supports best practices and clearly defines expectations for student learning. The curriculum at Olive J. Dodge Elementary School is explicit and clearly defined. The school offers a research-based curriculum that supports best practices and clearly defined expectations for student learning. Excellence and high standards are expected and the school regularly evaluates and analyzes data to determine curriculum needs. In order to ensure that each content area of the curriculum is being addressed, a variety of sources are used. The curriculum is based on the Alabama State Course of Study, Stanford Framework manuals, Mobile County issued writing objectives, the Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI), curriculum guides, data gathered from previous SAT, ARMT, OLSAT, and CRT scores, and Individual Education Plans (IEPs) for students with special needs. Curriculum and performance standards provide clear expectations for instruction, student work, and assessment. Olive J. Dodge Elementary School incorporates programs that meet the needs of individual students. The school is an AMSTI demonstration site where all students are instructed and encouraged to explore math and science using hands-on techniques. The nationally recognized Schoolyard Habitat enhances the science curriculum in its use as an outdoor classroom. AMSTI encourages an interdisciplinary approach to learning by integrating reading, writing, math, science, and technology. This interdisciplinary approach challenges each student to excel. Students have responded to these new techniques as evidenced by improved CRT, Alabama Direct Assessment of Writing (ADAW), and SAT scores. Assessments that facilitate individualized instruction include Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS) in kindergarten through third grade and the STAR reading assessment in grades one through five. These assessments help teachers identify at-risk students and guide reading instruction within the ARI (Alabama Reading Initiative) program. Classroom teachers, the reading coach, special education teachers, and paraprofessionals work daily with students identified in monthly data meetings in an effort to address a variety of learning styles, facilitate student success, and provide an equitable, quality education. The professional staff of Olive J. Dodge Elementary works in partnership in a variety of ways including weekly faculty meetings, frequent data and grade level meetings, and collaborative meetings between special education and general education teachers. The staff participates in the development of the School Action for Excellence (SAE) Plan and each staff member understands the importance of his or her role in implementing the plan. Teachers administer formative and summative assessments and use the results to guide future instruction and reteaching. Teachers, parents, administrators, and district personnel meet to share and discuss achievement goals and the results of formal and informal assessments. The programs implemented in the school are research-based and designed to promote student success.

The Mobile County Public School System provides a music teacher for grades K–3 for one semester each year and an art teacher for grades 4–5 for one semester each year. In addition, Olive J. Dodge provides an art teacher for grades K-3 for one semester each year. The school offers a diverse curriculum through community involvement including field trips, special programs, and the use of community resources. In order to maximize the learning experiences of students, an annual Celebrity Reader program has been established, and guest readers visit the school on a weekly basis through the Rolling Reader program. Field trips enhance the curriculum by acquainting children with the social, scientific, and historical benefits offered throughout the city, county, and surrounding areas. Olive J. Dodge also has community and educational groups, such as the Master Gardeners Association and the Environmental Studies Center, that present hands-on lessons on campus. Community resources are a valuable asset to the learning environment of Olive J. Dodge Elementary. Olive J. Dodge Elementary provides numerous extra-curricular activities to enhance the education of students and help them to become productive citizens. The school offers the following extra-curricular activities: Dance Team, Chorus, Math Team, Spanish Club, Technology Club, Student Council, Green Patrol, Chess Club, Early Morning Computer Lab, Wake Up and Read library program, Honors Chorus, Writing Lab, and the Spelling Bee. Policies for these programs are given in the form of parent information guides and permission forms. The extra-curricular activities help students develop qualities such as leadership, team play, and cooperation. Involvement in these activities helps students develop skills that will assist with academic areas and helps them become well-rounded, productive members of the school community as encouraged in the mission statement.

Standard 4: Instruction The school employs instructional strategies and provides services that facilitate learning for all students. The administration, faculty, and staff of Olive J. Dodge Elementary work together to provide students with the highest quality education. The mission of Dodge school is to provide all students with a quality education which will allow them to become productive citizens. This will be accomplished by dedicated staff, families, and a community committed to success. The faculty of Olive J. Dodge regularly assesses student progress to identify strengths and weaknesses in order to make plans for improvement. Student performance is assessed through Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS), STAR testing, quarterly Criterion Reference Tests (CRTs) in reading, math, and science, Alabama Reading and Math Test (ARMT), Alabama Direct Assessment of Writing Test (ADAW) and Stanford Achievement Tests (SAT 10). Test results are reviewed during data meetings and used in planning for instruction throughout the year. Sufficient time for student learning is ensured and protected through an uninterrupted two hour language arts/reading block. Researched-based programs to actively engage students and promote higher order thinking include Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI), Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI), Talents Unlimited, and Reading Renaissance. Teachers utilize Bloom’s Taxonomy and Marzano’s Strategies to engage students in higher order thinking. Olive J. Dodge offers a wide variety of programs and services for those students who require a modified curriculum or specialized instruction. Exceptionalities include Gifted and Talented (PACE), Specific Learning Disability (SLD), Speech and Language Impaired (SLI), Mental Retardation (MR), Other Health Impaired (OHI), Emotionally Disturbed (ED), Autistic (AUT), Visually Impaired (VI), Developmentally Delayed (DD), English as a Second Language (ESL), Orthopedic Impaired (OI), Multiple Disabilities (MD), and Hearing Impaired (HI). To address the physical needs of identified students, Adaptive Physical Education (APE), Occupational Therapy (OT), and Physical Therapy (PT) services are provided. In order to accommodate diverse learning styles, Olive J. Dodge offers programs for remediation and enrichment. Remediation programs include after school tutoring, ARI interventions, Kindergarten Bridging program, First Grade Jump Start, and a summer library reading program. Enrichment programs such as Technology Club, Spanish Club, Math Club, Writing Lab, Green Patrol, Chorus, and Dance Team are offered. Olive J. Dodge Elementary enhances instruction and learning through technological, natural, human, and material resources. Technological resources include a computer lab, a mini-computer lab, 3 multi-media presentation rooms, 2 computers in at least 90% of the classrooms, and a fully networked campus. In addition, the technology hardware

includes 25 handheld computers, 15 digital cameras, 18 LCD projectors, 120 writers, 4 Smart boards, 8 school pads, 20 scanners, 2 digital video cameras, and 1 camcorder. Software includes Kidspiration, Orchard, Kids Keys, Scott Foresman Success Net, Learning.com, and several Microsoft products. Other resources used to enhance instruction and learning include highly qualified teachers, community leaders, PTA volunteers, and a variety of instructional and manipulative materials. Learning is further enhanced through the use of the school’s butterfly garden, the National Schoolyard Habitat, Earth Day activities, and the annual Poetry Fair. To help maintain a school climate conducive to learning, school and classroom rules are posted, taught, and consistently practiced in every teacher’s classroom. Teachers clearly communicate to students their expectations for school and classroom behavior and hold students responsible for their behavior. A copy of the Mobile County Public School System’s Code of Conduct is provided to all principals, teachers, and parents. Teachers and students engage in teaching and learning activities for 180 days each school year as stipulated by Alabama State Law. Olive J. Dodge Elementary employs highly qualified teachers who implement a minimum of twenty-five hours weekly of planned instructional strategies and learning activities that enhance the development of the whole child.

Standard 5: Assessment and Evaluation The school uses a comprehensive assessment system to monitor and evaluate student

learning and to improve curriculum and instruction.

The school monitors individual and school progress in all academic areas using a comprehensive assessment system. This system consists of both norm-referenced and criterion-referenced tests. Results from these tests are used to evaluate the efficiency of teaching methodology and improve curriculum instruction. The administration and staff set high expectations for academic performance and the school’s progress towards these expectations is carefully monitored throughout the year. Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS) and quarterly Criterion-Referenced Tests (CRTs) are used to measure reading skills of students in the primary grades (K – 3rd). Teachers also use DIBELS Progress Monitoring materials frequently to monitor students’ reading skills. Data obtained during progress monitoring is considered a dynamic indicator of student performance and direct instruction is modified continuously based on this data. Teachers in grades one through five use the STAR testing program to determine reading levels for the Accelerated Reader Program (AR). AR reports provide additional data for developing appropriate reading instruction based on the needs of the students. Students in all grade levels participate in CRTs at the end of each quarter. These tests measure skills in various academic areas including reading, math, and science. Statewide assessments that are administered yearly to measure academic achievement in grades three through five include the Alabama Reading and Math Test (ARMT), Stanford Achievement Test (SAT 10), and the Otis-Lennon School Abilities Test (OLSAT). The fifth grade students also participate in the Alabama Direct Assessment of Writing. The administration and staff work to continuously improve the quality of instruction in the school through the use of data compiled from assessments and evaluations. Data meetings are held by each grade level to discuss student performance and to allow teachers to think creatively about ways to improve instruction for areas of weakness. Teachers use current data to create weekly lesson plans. Special education teachers use current data to create and revise Individualized Education Programs for students who require specialized instruction. Test Trax, a web-based program designed to make testing results for each student available to school personnel, allows general and special education teachers to share assessment data with ease and enables them to use the most current information available to effectively plan for differentiated instruction. Building-Based Student Support Team meetings are held biweekly to review data collected in the classroom and evaluate the effectiveness of research-based intervention strategies that have been implemented in the general education classroom to accommodate learning differences among the students. Periodic reviews of current assessment data are also

conducted in order to revise the School Action for Excellence (SAE) Plan so that it accurately reflects the learning needs of students and curriculum goals. Information about testing results is traditionally conveyed to parents through conferences that are held each semester, progress reports, report cards, and formal testing reports from the agencies responsible for compiling state assessment results. In addition to these traditional methods, the school also makes testing results available to parents through STI Parent, a web-based grade reporting system. Testing results are summarized and displayed prominently on the Dashboard located in the main building. Information about student performance is distributed to stakeholders in the community via reports given by local news media and during community action meetings. Testing results are also published in the state school report card and the School Action for Excellence (SAE) Plan that is available for stakeholder review.

Standard 6: Resources The school has sufficient human, financial, physical, and material resources to support its vision, mission, and goals. Olive J. Dodge Elementary currently meets SACS human resource standards in the areas of administration, guidance, and library media. All professional and paraprofessional personnel have attained highly qualified status. Professional development is provided for staff members on a continuous basis through on-site, district, regional, state, and national conferences and workshops. All professional personnel earn 120 hours of credit during each five years of employment to maintain their certification in the state of Alabama. Certified and classified personnel are evaluated in a systematic and confidential manner. The principal and assistant principals administer the Professional Education Personnel Evaluation Program of Alabama (PEPE) to evaluate teachers. They also monitor paraprofessional qualifications/training. The district is responsible for qualifying and training substitute teachers. The school is provided with a list of qualified substitutes who may be called as needed. Class sizes meet the state maximum requirements. Administrators also ensure that each classroom teacher has an unencumbered planning time. In the areas of physical and financial resources, budgetary procedures follow local, state, and federal guidelines for allocation, utilization, and monitoring. All resources are budgeted in accordance with the local School Action for Excellence (SAE) Plan. Funds raised in the name of the school are deposited in the school’s general account and all funds undergo periodic district audits. District salary schedules are implemented based on education and experience. The administrators of Olive J. Dodge Elementary monitor safe use of physical resources, identify potential safety hazards, and maintain a safe and healthy environment for instruction and extra-curricular activities. The school buildings are maintained by a staff of seven custodians and one plant engineer. Classrooms are housed in three permanent buildings and ten portable classrooms. The school is in need of a new wing so that all classrooms will be in permanent buildings. The media center at Olive J. Dodge Elementary School maintains a collection of approximately 14,785 books and other circulating materials. This collection averages 13.61 books per student. All materials are purchased to support the K-5 curriculum and to enhance student learning. The media center uses the Athena circulation system. Students use self check-in to return books. The Media Specialist or Library Aide checks out books for students so that each selection can be reviewed for appropriateness. Circulation at Olive J. Dodge Elementary currently averages 800 books per day.

The media center operates on a flexible schedule with time for check-out, prearranged instructional classes, informal small groups, and/or individual assistance provided daily. The media center is open before school for students and teachers, and after school for teachers, in order to provide additional access to materials and equipment. A library orientation session is provided for all students at the beginning of each school year. Students receive age appropriate, collaborative, formal and informal instruction in library use and information literacy skills throughout the year. The Media Specialist collaborates with grade level representatives to ensure that instruction supports classroom objectives and instructional goals. Staff members receive training on an “as needed” basis. The Media Specialist follows the school district’s policy and procedures to address challenged materials. This policy includes review of each challenged item by the school’s Library Enhancement Committee. An Internet Use Policy is also addressed using guidelines set by the school district. This policy is included on the Student Registration Card and must be signed by both the parent and the student. The signed policy is returned to the school and kept in the student’s cumulative file. New materials for the Media Center are purchased using state library enhancement funds. Olive J. Dodge Elementary receives $200 per teacher unit in Library Enhancement funding. The total for the 2006-2007 school year is $15,800. This allocation is used to purchase books, periodicals, software, computers, printers, audio/visual materials, instructional equipment such as cameras, and supplies, as well as to pay yearly software technical support fees. Supplemental funds are provided by donations from the school’s PTA and from proceeds received during the yearly Book Fair. The media specialist has received a federal grant for the 2006-2007 school year. This grant will provide one-time funds for new books, electronic books, books on tape, cassette tape players, AR quizzes, two computers, one printer, and several other miscellaneous items. The Library Enhancement Committee works with the Media Specialist to review the yearly library budget and recommend purchases. The Media Center has 14 computers, one networked printer, and one color printer for student use. There are three additional computers and printers for circulation and Media Specialist office use. Olive J. Dodge Elementary has a computer lab staffed by a technology teacher and students receive instruction on a rotating basis. There are 31 computers in the computer lab and one, two, or three computers in each classroom. All computers in the school are networked and are therefore able to access the Athena program for searching the library automated catalog. Approximately 83 computers are in the process of being removed from the network because they are older Windows 98 computers. This includes four computers in the Media Center. The school district will no longer support these computers and virus software will no longer be updated. The school system has replaced 28 of these computers. Funding is not currently available to replace the remaining 55 Windows 98 computers.

Standard 7: Support Services for Student Learning The school has a comprehensive program of guidance and other services that supports the development and well being of all students. The Comprehensive Counseling and Guidance Program at Olive J. Dodge Elementary School is delivered by two certified counselors. The counselors provide guidance lessons for 58 classes each week. Each counselor is responsible for 29 classes and three grade levels. Currently, one counselor is responsible for grades K, 2, and 4. The second counselor is responsible for grades 1, 3, and 5. All students have equal access to all guidance and counseling programs. Counselors are available for individual counseling as needed. Each student sees a counselor for a minimum of 30 minutes per week in the large group setting. The counselors are also available to consult with teachers, parents, administrators, and community members about the success of the students. Educational and career planning begins as early as kindergarten and is completed with the preparation of career portfolios and middle school transition activities for fifth graders. The guidance program is enhanced by the use of various community resources and speakers. Opportunities are provided for students to interact with older students and adults from the community. These programs address such topics as drug and alcohol awareness, anti-smoking, personal safety issues, and domestic violence. A referral may also be made to an outside agency for assistance beyond the scope of the local school counselor. The counselors make the appropriate referrals to outside agencies as listed in the Mobile County Public School System Notebook of Community Resources or the Information and Referral Directory of the Greater Mobile Area. The directories are housed in the guidance office. The physical well-being of all students is supported by the school’s health professionals who provide educational classes for students and staff. Services include vision, hearing, scoliosis, and dental screenings. Olive J. Dodge Elementary School follows state and district guidelines for health and nutrition as set forth in the Comprehensive Wellness Plan published by the Mobile County Public School System. The safety of the students is further addressed by the school traffic and crossing guard, safety checks performed daily by the bus drivers, and the Crisis Management Plan. Olive J. Dodge Elementary School provides appropriate support for students with special needs in the areas of identification, instruction, and evaluation. Students with various disabilities receive instruction throughout the school day in inclusive and resource settings. Olive J. Dodge Elementary also provides support in terms of pre-referral strategies for at-risk students in the general education classroom. The Building-Based Student Support Team (BBSST), a committee of general and special education teachers, brainstorm with instructors for ways to assist at-risk students in math, reading, or classroom behavior.

Olive J. Dodge Elementary currently has 68 National Origin Minority students enrolled. For those students whose test scores indicate a need, English as a Second Language services are provided to promote social skills and academic English language acquisition. Olive J. Dodge Elementary School maintains accurate student records in accordance with state and federal guidelines. The STI program is used for attendance, grades, and demographics. The Accelerated Reader program is utilized for assigning reading levels, setting individual reading goals, and testing. The security of these programs is assured through the use of passwords in order to protect student privacy. All cumulative and special education folders are stored in a locked file cabinet in the school office. These records must be checked out as needed and returned during the same school day. All teachers at Olive J. Dodge Elementary School attend professional development workshops in order to identify and understand the developmental stages of childhood. The individual child’s development and growth is communicated by teachers through regular parent/teacher conferences. In addition, parents may participate in activities such as AMSTI/Literacy Night, Meet the Teacher Night, Parenting Day, and technology workshops. These activities provide educational opportunities for teachers and parents to better understand the various stages of student development.

Standard 8: Stakeholder Communications and Relationships The school fosters effective communications and relationships with and among its stakeholders.

The faculty and staff at Olive J. Dodge Elementary School have a long history of effective relationships with stakeholders. The award winning PTA at Olive J. Dodge sponsors many activities that support student learning as it works in conjunction with the teachers and administration. Some activities include Accelerated Reader Reward Store, Movie Night, Boosterthon Fun Run, Open House, Reflections, Citizenship Awards, and Honor Roll. Other indicators of relationships with stakeholders are the Partners in Education program, Rolling Reader program, Celebrity Readers, Dodge Night at CiCi’s Pizza, and AMSTI/Literacy Night. Clear and effective communications between stakeholders are maintained through the School-InSites website, bi-weekly bulletins mailed to Partners in Education, participation in the Mobile Area Education Foundation’s “Yes We Can!”, and the Partners in Education Opportunity Checklist. The PTA solicits the knowledge and skills of parents to enhance the work of the school. The PTA assists the staff with registration and actively enrolls parents and Partners in Education as members of the PTA. The PTA hosts New Parent Coffees, Parent Parties, Honor’s Day, Honor Roll, and Good Citizenship Assemblies. The PTA serves on special committees such as the Beautification Committee and the Eagle’s Nest Playground Committee. Parent surveys are used to ascertain skills and interests of Dodge parents. The school climate is monitored and steps are taken to ensure an environment conducive to student learning by surveying the staff, students, parents, and other stakeholders. Further monitoring is done by utilizing the Parent Contact Logs, holding parent conferences, and conducting Meet the Teacher Night. The staff sponsors a Before/After School Tutoring Program, an early morning Wake-Up and Read library program, the state recognized Green Patrol and Student Council, state award-winning Technology Club, Math Team, Spanish Club, Chorus, Honors Chorus, Chess Club, Writing Lab, and Dance Team. The staff encourages community participation in events such as the Food World Charity Run, Azalea Trail Run, and St. Jude’s Math-A-Thon. The Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts use the school facilities for their evening meetings. Extra-curricular activities help students grow academically, emotionally, and socially. The expectations for student learning are communicated to stakeholders through the School-InSites website and the Dashboard displayed in the main building. One example of effective communication between the school and the community is Home Depot’s revitalization of the playground and their participation in the 2006 Earth Day Celebration. During the Earth Day Celebration, Master Gardeners, parents, and the entire student body weeded, planted, mulched existing beds, and expanded the Schoolyard Habitat.

Standard 9: Citizenship The school helps students develop civic, social, and personal responsibility. Olive J. Dodge Elementary provides a safe and orderly environment that is conducive to learning, academic success, and social development. Hallway, cafeteria, and bathroom procedures are posted and explained to the students. Each teacher is provided with a copy of the school-wide Crisis Management Plan that identifies potential safety hazards and the procedures to follow in case of an emergency. Duty schedules are created each year to ensure the safety and well being of each student during the arrival and dismissal process. The goal of discipline at Olive J. Dodge Elementary is to maintain a positive atmosphere for learning while teaching students to be responsible citizens. A county-wide code of conduct and school handbook are given to parents and students each year. Rules are posted throughout the school in restrooms, halls, and cafeteria. Teachers post all rules and establish their own classroom discipline plan. Classroom teachers work with students who violate school rules by conferencing with them, restricting their privileges, and discussing the behavior with the child’s parents. Teachers and administrators monitor attendance and discipline using STI software provided by the local school system. Olive J. Dodge students develop civic responsibility and citizenship skills through participation in community and school-based programs that provide leadership opportunities in the daily life of the school. These include: Character Education: Students are taught character education traits through weekly half hour lessons from the guidance counselors. These lessons teach trustworthiness, respect, citizenship, caring, responsibility, and fairness. Teachers promote these traits in the classroom on a daily basis. Student Council: This is a student service organization composed of students in grades 3-5. Students are taught organization, responsibility, and citizenship skills. Student council activities include: Treats for the Troops: Donated items are collected and shipped to grateful soldiers serving in Afghanistan and Iraq. This year over 300 pounds of donated items were collected. Red Ribbon Week: Officers and representatives plan various drug awareness activities. Officers speak each morning during announcements about the importance of being drug free. Student Planners: As a fundraiser, students sell assignment books at registration for the third, fourth, and fifth grade students. Election of Officers and Homeroom Representatives: This process is one of the most important ways that we promote civic awareness and responsibility. Canned Food Drive: Canned goods are collected and donated to Lifegate

Ministries. These canned goods help provide Thanksgiving dinners for the needy. Good Citizenship Assembly: Monthly, each teacher selects a student who exhibits outstanding character traits. The selected students are honored quarterly in an assembly sponsored by the PTA. Keep Mobile Beautiful: This is a community and school-based beautification program that addresses litter and waste control, recycling, landscaping, and environmental education. Accomplishments include the rebuilding of the campus playground, labeling of plants in the Schoolyard Habitat, the establishment of the Green Patrol, landscaping the flag pole area, recycling cans, leaves, and straw, participation in the “Adopt an Area” project, and the creation of butterfly gardens. Green Patrol: This is a student organization composed of nine fourth grade students selected monthly to aid in litter pick up and recycling. The Green Patrol monitors the school grounds for litter and assists smaller students with the recycling process. Goals include encouraging recycling, protecting beautification projects, instilling school pride, and encouraging positive environmental values. P.E. Leaders: Students are selected on a weekly basis to lead exercises and assist with equipment distribution and collection. This practice gives students the opportunity to model positive behaviors and build positive self-concepts. Kindergarten Helpers: Fifth grade students are chosen by their teachers to be Kindergarten Helpers. They are students who have demonstrated qualities of leadership and responsibility in their classroom. This program gives them the opportunity to further develop these skills by assisting kindergarten teachers at dismissal time. Runners: These are fifth grade students who are recommended by their teachers to assist in the carpool dismissal process. This position helps students develop an understanding of the importance of teamwork. Announcements: Students who exhibit leadership qualities are chosen by their teachers to assist with the daily morning announcements by saying the pledge and mission statement. Fourth grade students are chosen to read the Spanish phrase of the week and give the weather report. During the afternoon announcements, the principal recognizes students who perform “Good Citizenship” deeds such as turning in lost property to the school’s lost and found. Students are also recognized for achieving their personal goals in Accelerated Reader. The activities and programs conducted during the school year help support and encourage students to become contributors to and supporters of the community.

Standard 10: Continuous Process of School Improvement The school establishes, implements, and monitors a continuous process of improvement that focuses on student performance. In compliance with district guidelines, Olive J. Dodge Elementary School operates under the guidance of a School Action for Excellence (SAE) committee. The committee members include the principal, assistant principals, grade level chairpersons, library media specialist, technology coordinator, resource teacher representatives, support personnel, and community stakeholders. The committee meets to discuss, develop, and implement the School Action for Excellence (SAE) Plan and to discuss items that concern the Olive J. Dodge community. The SAE Plan is developed by the committee after reviewing local data, surveys, and recommendations from stakeholders.

Olive J. Dodge maintains a continuous process of improvement that articulates the direction and profile of the school. The SAE Plan provides a description of the current vision and outlines the plan of action that will be taken in each of the following areas: math, reading, writing, science, technology, parental involvement, transition, staff development, and instruction by highly qualified (HQ) staff. Plan-Do-Checks for School Action for Excellence (PDCAs) identify goals, strategies, budgets, timelines, and the school personnel necessary to improve student learning.

Faculty and staff members are provided on-site, district, regional and national staff development opportunities for professional growth. Olive J. Dodge Elementary is currently providing job embedded professional development for ARI and AMSTI strategies.

The School Action for Excellence committee monitors student progress with data from CRTs, DIBELS, ARMT, SAT, OLSAT, progress monitoring, and data meetings. The data is analyzed in the SAE Plan. The results are communicated to stakeholders through the school Dashboard displayed in the main building, parent conferences, and in communications with parents and the community.

For more information, see attached School Action for Excellence Plan.

Section 3:

School Action for Excellence Plan

*The School Action for Excellence Plan is on file in office, PTA room, library, & lab

Section 4:

Quality Assurance

Section 4: Quality Assurance Olive J. Dodge Elementary School follows a School Action for Excellence (SAE) Plan which addresses the goals for the year and the strategies that will be used to achieve each goal. The School Action for Excellence (SAE) committee writes the SAE Plan after careful review of all test data, instructional needs, and staff development opportunities. The SAE Plan drives instruction throughout the year and is based on the needs of the students and the school. All staff development and in-service opportunities are scheduled to coordinate with the SAE Plan. The SAE committee meets quarterly to review available test data, analyze progress made toward achievement of goals, and analyze opportunities for improvement in each curriculum area. It is the responsibility of the SAE committee to ensure that the school stays focused on achieving the goals set forth in the SAE Plan. Throughout the year, the SAE committee and all stakeholders are actively engaged in the process of improvement through continuous analysis, revision, and realignment of goals and strategies at Olive J. Dodge School. The SAE Plan is posted on the school website and copies are available in the school library, office, computer lab, and PTA room for stakeholders to review. The results of the school’s efforts to improve student learning are sent home in monthly newsletters, announced at PTA meetings, discussed during parent-teacher conferences, and can be accessed on the school’s website. Test data is accumulated throughout the year and used to determine which students are in need of remediation, enrichment, or special services. Teachers use test data to guide instruction and determine appropriate teaching strategies and practices. Olive J. Dodge Elementary School provides many opportunities for the administration and teachers to organize and plan for improving student learning. Grade level meetings, faculty meetings, data meetings, and SAE committee meetings and planning sessions offer opportunities to organize activities that provide for a quality curriculum, improved instruction, and ongoing assessment. Professional Development days are used to train teachers in strategies that target the needs of students. Available resources are identified and utilized to maximize student learning and support the goals of student achievement.