Year 2 in the Books

Today marked the close of my second year of teaching kindergarten at Chalmers.  I can't believe how quickly this year has gone.  It's been a great year.  We were chosen as a Turnaround Arts school, so we incorporated more art (dramatic, visual, and musical) into our classrooms and the school community.  We saw a dramatic change in our students this year.  I feel like I am part of something special this year.  We saw so much growth in our students' academic performance, but also in their demeanor, too.  Our school went up two levels in the CPS SQRP (School Quality Rating Policy).  Our school went from being Level 3 to Level 2+ and we were just a point away from being a level 1 school.  What that means for our school is that we are now in "Good Standing" with Chicago Public Schools.  This is amazing, considering just last year we were considered to be in need of "Intensive Support."  I'm so proud of my colleagues and our administration, but especially of our students and their families.  I'm excited for what next year will bring.