School Mission
Current CIWP (Continuous Improvement Work Plan) PrioritiesTo be redeveloped Fall 2022
Strategy 1) Student Growth in Math & Reading If we...build structures for consistent teacher collaboration focused on analyzing NWEA assessment data, globally consistent instructional delivery and MTSS progress monitoring then we see...successful differentiated instruction and focus time which leads to...effective use of NWEA BOY, MOY and EOY assessment data resulting in improved student growth in reading and math for ALL by 6% annually Strategy 2) Student Growth on ACCESS If we...build structures for consistent teacher collaboration focused on analyzing ACCESS assessment data, English learner instructional strategies, and appropriate language supports for listening, speaking, reading and writing language competencies then we see...English learner students engaging in complex tasks with appropriate language scaffolds and teachers using assessment data to guide differentiated instruction which leads to...English learner students making expected individual growth in ACCESS and meeting and/or exceeding their individual NWEA growth targets in a culture for learning where perseverance, rigorous learning and productive struggle are the norm Strategy 3) Collaborative Practices If we do...Build structures for supportive leadership team capacity to lead cycles of learning with fidelity and grow professional development then we see...teachers engaging in peer visits, reflective dialogue and fostering a collaborative culture that promotes continuous improvement which leads to…the collective responsibility in the learning of every child, and a “Very Strong” rating of Collaborative Teachers on the 5 Essentials Survey. Strategy 4) Embedded Design-thinking Instruction If we do...build structures that embed the CPS Fine Arts Standards for Success as an essential vehicle for teaching and learning for all students then we see...students engaged in project-based learning rooted in design thinking and student choice, voice and ownership at all grade levels, in all classrooms which leads to… an increase in the 5Essentials data in Innovation by 10%. |
MORE ABOUT WATERS' CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION
The staff at Waters School believe in best practice. With over ten years of steady commitment, they have turned the school into an extraordinary environment for children, filled with art, books, nature, ideas, writing, music, achievements, and delight. Integrated Curriculum The Fine Arts program, technology and environmental studies are used to weave concepts and themes across all subjects for more engaging and holistic instruction. Experiential Learning Children learn through hands-on activities and interaction. Differentiated Learning Teachers create different experiences based on their students various academic levels in reading and math. FINE ARTS The Fine Arts teachers at Waters use the arts to express world culture and current events. They work closely with the classroom teachers to create projects that integrate subject matter from the students’ other classes. The Fine Arts are used as a learning tool as well as an enrichment program. Arts integration is embraced in all curriculum areas and students perform curriculum based showcases throughout the year. |
The natural path of the Chicago River once flowed through where our school currently stands. The rectangle below shows the outline of Waters' campus. The current path of the river, after being channelized, is on the left.