Turnaround Talk

February 2025

Food for Thought

Important Dates

February

Feb. 4-5...Washington K-8 audit
Feb. 11-12...West End Academy audit
Feb. 18...Chastang-Fournier audit
Feb. 19...Chisholm audit
Feb. 20...District Leader Turnaround Academy (virtual)
Feb. 25...Barbour County Intermediate audit
Feb. 25-26...Hayes K-8 audit
Feb. 27-28...MLK Elementary audit

Collaborative Walkthrough Schedule
OSI Principal Calendar (make a copy and personalize your calendar)

March

March 4...Dozier Elementary Audit
March 6-7...Hemphill Elementary audit
March 11...Highland Gardens Elementary audit
March 12...J.F. Shield audit
March 18...Faine Elementary audit

Historic Gains for Alabama in 4th Grade Mathematics and Reading on the NAEP

Results just released from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), commonly known as America’s Report Card, show Alabama students are leading the charge in post-COVID academic recovery. In 4th grade math Alabama climbed to 32nd in 2024, from a low point of 52nd in 2019, the last NAEP administered pre-COVID.

Alabama’s 6-point scale score increase was the largest increase in the nation when it comes to 4th grade math. Alabama’s place in 4th grade reading has moved dramatically over the past five years, moving up to 34th in 2024. This after hitting a low point of 49th in 2019. Alabama is one of only two states (along with Louisiana) to exceed pre-COVID levels in 4th grade reading.

Principal Turnaround Academy - Highland Gardens Elementary

Our recent Principals Turnaround Academy at Highland Gardens Elementary provided an invaluable opportunity for collaboration and growth. Principals engaged in deep discussions on data-driven decision-making and student success, refining strategies to drive meaningful change in their schools.

Dr. Kay Warfield shared key insights on student attendance and discipline, while Courtney Wilburn guided principals through conversations on student achievement and growth. These discussions reinforced the importance of ongoing data conversations with leadership teams and teachers—because it’s not just about the numbers, but the actions that follow that truly impact student outcomes.

In addition, participants conducted classroom walkthroughs focused on essential instructional practices. A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Sides, her staff, and students for their warm hospitality and support in creating a welcoming and productive learning environment. Their efforts set the stage for a productive and engaging session!

Let’s continue these important conversations and put insights into action to drive sustained school improvement!

Youth Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid is a course that gives people the skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of crisis. The training gives you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be experiencing a mental health crisis.

SES Professional Learning Series

Purpose:

SES Shorts seeks to provide teachers and administrators working with students with exceptionalities professional development focused on improving student outcomes.

Goal:

Deliver just-in-time professional development that is collaborative, data-driven, and implements evidence-based practices.

Length:

60-minute sessions

(45-minute professional development with a 15-minute question-and-answer opportunity)

Scheduling:

Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays

9:00 AM -10:00 AM
11:30 PM - 12:30 PM, and/or
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

MEGA Conference

This year’s conference is a week-long, in-person event that provides attendees with opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions, participate in in-depth training sessions, and learn from leading experts across the education spectrum.

MEGA CONFERENCE 2025

July 14 - 18 at the Mobile Convention Center

Register Now for BEST RATE!

Early Bird Fee $200 - Deadline March 1, 2025
Pre-Registration - $225 (March 2 - May 31, 2025)
Late Registration/Onsite $250 (June 1 and through conference)

For conference information as it becomes available, please visit http://mega-alabama.com/

February - Principal Monthly Reminders

Planning Checklist and Calendars 2024-2025

OSI Curriculum Leader Calendar Checklist

OSI Principal Calendar Checklist

Student Information Systems Data Calendar

Assessment Testing Dates for 2024-2025

Assessment Testing Dates for 2025-2026

PREP (Preparing Relief Educators Program)

The PREP Program is designed to provide high-quality resources to emergency-certificate teachers, long-term substitutes, and early service teachers, empowering them to excel in their roles and make a positive, long-lasting difference in the lives of their students.

If you have any teachers that fall in one of these categories I encourage you to make this resource available to them. A list of topics and supporting resources can be found HERE.