The Arkansas Department of Education (ADE), the Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators, and the education cooperatives are pleased to offer the training program Classroom Walkthrough Training (CWT), a professional development opportunity for Arkansas Principals.
One of the primary characteristics of effective schools is the instructural leadership by the administrator. In today’s climate of high standards and accountability, it is important that instructional leaders are able to spend considerable time in classrooms collecting data, coaching, and supporting quality classroom instruction that leads to student achievement.
CWT is a strategy that has been identified as an effective structure to guide classroom visits. When principals do begin to visit classrooms for the purpose of providing feedback, it is important that they know what to look for as they examine the teaching and learning process. Based upon the grade-level standards and benchmarks, what should be taught? How should it be taught? Is there evidence of differentiation of instruction? Are students engaged and on task? When challenges are identified, how can they be communicated to the teacher in a way that encourages self-reflection and growth as a professional?
CWT is specifically designed for Arkansas administrators. Participants will be trained to engage in a classroom walk-through, collect and analyze information, and conduct a reflective conversation with the teacher.
CWT is scheduled for one day of initial training and one day of follow-up training. During the first day, participants will learn and practice CWT. The follow-up session, held several weeks after the initial training, will allow participants to ask questions and practice and refine their CWT skills. Training is held at a school site and the sessions are intense and compact—about 25 persons per session—to allow for maximum use of time and discussion. Each participant receives a comprehensive notebook with reference materials to assist in the CWT process. Come prepared to work.
The ADE ENCOURAGES ALL PRINCIPALS TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS TRAINING OPPORTUNITY. One principal who participated in the pilot program stated, “I wish I’d had this training and these tools ten years ago!”
CWT sessions will be offered through the education cooperatives and the greater Pulaski County school districts. Schools will be notified of the dates and locations of the training sessions in their area.