Innovation Plan Proposal
To: CFISD Secondary Reading Coordinator and Principal of Labay Middle School
From: Jelisa Davis-Sophus, M.Ed.
Date: June 9, 2024
Re: Innovation Plan Proposal
To: CFISD Secondary Reading Coordinator and Principal of Labay MS
As education continues, we must evolve and stay relevant with our resources, teaching methods, and engagement strategies. Secondary education provides a level of independence that allows students to take ownership of their learning like never before. As a sixth-grade Reading Language Arts teacher, I am tasked with keeping students safe, providing high-quality instruction, and enhancing their learning experiences.
Many sixth graders who begin their secondary educational careers are unaware of the tools available to them, and in turn, are not maximizing the opportunities to take ownership of their learning. The curriculum adequately addresses the necessary Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), which students are expected to master, the “what”, however by reworking the “how” and mandating technology to enhance the learning experience, we can properly provide options for students to share their learning using various digital platforms.
I am proposing to implement and test a Blended Learning initiative using the sixth grade Reading Language Arts curriculum for the 2025-2026 academic school year that will be piloted in my classroom at Labay Middle School, Tech-ing TEKS: Blended Learning Initiative. By implementing this blended learning initiative, we have the opportunity to adjust the curriculum to include required technology and be able to gain feedback from students, families, and all stakeholders involved. The data in addition to feedback and reflection during the process will allow me as the pilot instructor, to observe where change is needed along the process, to motivate students to be life-long, self-motivated learners. As educators, it is our duty to guide students to fall in love with learning no matter where the learning takes place. Now that the district is a one-to-one district, as well as a District of Innovation, piloting this new Tech-ing TEKS: Blended Learning Initiative, will showcase the need for more innovative educational options and show how we maximize, and customize the learning for all learners.
By piloting this initiative, I can show students new ways of showcasing their learning, and model how to use it along the way. This initiative will allow me to gather data to share with others so that we can collaboratively find ways to help create scholars who take ownership of their learning. College and career readiness begins with a desire, fueled by experience and exposure. Laying the foundation for experiences and exposure begins with us.
Sincerely,
Jelisa Davis-Sophus, M.Ed.
