Sharon Smaldino, Director, College of Education Partnership Office
Wright experienced its share of challenges in the first year, but the future looks bright.
Buildings and Equipment
Construction crews who were converting the old Malta High School into Wright Elementary ran into obstacles, so the faculty was unable to get into the building until two days before the first open house. And students’ desks arrived three weeks into the year, so tables had to be used in the meantime. Teachers reported that many worked into the wee hours of the night — or actually the next morning — before school opened. This dedication continued throughout the first year.
Staff Cohesion
Many members of Wright’s staff were among the 60 educators and citizens who designed Wright School in 2003-4. The new staff began meeting in July to plan together for the first year. Building on the experience of the core group, faculty quickly developed a shared vision even though they came from schools all over the district. PE Teacher Steve Bell credits administrators with the smooth start. “The staff and administration were extremely helpful and took time to make sure we were comfortable with the curriculum and the innovative methods of instruction,” he said.
New Leadership
In addition to a new school building, new vision, and new methods, teachers also experienced changes at the district level. The district welcomed a new superintendent in fall 2004, plus a new assistant superintendent for human resources and a new Wright principal for the 2005-06 school year.
Future Directions
- Completion of 120 literacy lessons that incorporate fine arts, technology, and individualized instruction
- Expansion of collaborative planning time for Wright teachers to develop integrated lessons
- Integration of fine arts and technology into mathematics
- Increased emphasis on physical development, health, and citizenship
- Expansion of Wright After School
- Dissemination of Wright innovations to more District 428 schools
- Dissemination of Wright innovations as a national model
Gina Greenwald summed up the future for Wright School: “We want to see that our students are doing their best, and we are dedicated to helping them exceed everyone’s expectations.”
