Abstract/Notes: Rick Mosher's coining of the word "Urbkinder" reminds us that the city provides a broad environment for learning with key experiences being defined by the student's choice of in-depth involvement. Quoting John Long, these city experiences are real, engaging, connected to thought, allow for personal reflection, and rely on the teaching moment. Rick Mosher feels that the urban experience should be clearly differentiated from that of the work on the land, but his characterization of the needs and tendencies of adolescents shows little difference from unfolding development on the farm. [This talk was presented at the NAMTA conference titled "Montessori: Engaging the Human Personality," Fort Worth, TX, February 29, 2012.]

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Language: English

Abstract/Notes: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the reorganization of Northboro Elementary School from the academic years of 1991–1992 through 2000–2001. The study was designed to determine the effectiveness of achieving five objectives established for the reorganization in two-year increments of implementation from the perspectives of the administrative staff, teachers, paraprofessionals, and parents. The reorganization objectives were (1) to develop a physically and psychologically safe environment for all students; (2) to implement a public magnet program to racially balance the population with non-Black students; (3) to increase student achievement scores on the state assessment test in the areas of reading, writing, and mathematics; (4) to increase parent involvement at the school; and (5) to improve the quality and increase the amount of staff development. Utilizing the focus group method, the 35 participants represented, 4 administrative staff, 9 paraprofessionals, 4 reading teachers, 3 regular and 6 Montessori teachers, and 9 parents. The Levels of Use of the Innovation (LoU) (Hall, Loucks, Rutherford, & Newlove, 1975) was used for the assessment of all aspects of the reorganization. As a result of the evaluation, it was determined that all the objectives were met in accordance with the LoU model. The major findings were: (1) Using an effective reorganization tool, such as the Levels of Use, gave the leader clear direction for reorganization, from orienting, to managing, and finally to integrating the use of the innovation. (2) Parent participation in the reorganization process was essential for effective teaching and learning. Parent involvement was critical in promoting a sound physically and psychologically safe environment. (3) Implementing an innovative Montessori Magnet program reduced the racial balance, and drew racially, economically, and educationally diverse students. Based on the findings, it is recommended that additional evaluations be conducted to include: (1) Examining the extent race or age had on the overall success of the reorganization. (2) Determining if the Montessori, Reading Recovery, and Levels of Use strategies are only effective at the elementary level. (3) Assessing the academic achievement of eighth- and tenth-grade students who participated in the Reading Recovery Program.

Language: English

Published: Cincinnati, Ohio, 2004

Language: English

Language: English

Language: English

Language: English

Language: English

Language: English