Graves Middle School held an articulation with the district’s classified elementary staff and 6th grade teachers on Friday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 5, at their campus.
The first articulation was for classified staff from the South Whittier School District’s elementary schools on December 1st. Five of the elementary schools were represented between two sessions that took place that day.
During this articulation session the staff were informed about major changes at Graves that have had a positive impact on their students. Some of these changes include block schedule, longer school days, structured teacher collaboration, Embedded Support, take-home Chromebook for all kids, and their Olweus anti-bullying program.
Staff also got a tour of the school’s library and classrooms so they could observe instruction of all content areas. They were also told about Graves’ new digital curriculum in English Language Arts and science called Amplify.
Graves then shared about some of their recent events that included hosting a county-wide AVID training with 30 educators from LA, having a visit from Australian educators, and that they will host five school visits before Christmas break this year. They also shared their success of becoming an AVID National Demonstration Site, a Gold Ribbon School, a Title I Academic Achievement School, and most recently, a Golden Bell School.
The second articulation held on Tuesday, December 5, was for the district’s 6th grade teachers. This articulation incorporated the same elements as the classified staff articulation, however, there were a few additional elements included.
Sixth grade teachers were able to meet with Graves’ ELA department chair, seventh grade math teacher and science teacher, and the ASB teacher. These Graves’ teachers were able to share about changes that have been taking place within their departments. They also participated in a collegial conversation regarding next steps as a district and the Next Generation Science Standards and gave a preview of Graves’ completely digital Amplify program.
After hearing from Graves’ teachers, the sixth grade teachers had the opportunity to have a Q & A session with ASB students. They were able to ask questions and get the students perspective on the changes that have been taking place on their campus. Teachers then received first trimester grades of former students to see how they are doing.
"We love having the opportunity to collaborate with our colleagues from the sixth grade team,” Dr. Fraijo, Graves’ principal stated. “It is a pleasure to work with them and see how excited our students get to see them again. We love sharing about Graves so they are in the loop about all of our changes and we look forward to working with them again next year.”
The articulation was wrapped up with a debrief of their classroom visits to discuss strengths and next steps as a school.