CCSD 180 Board Does Its Homework, Sets Trial Run for Fast ForWord Program

Following a thorough review, the CCSD 180 Board of Education set a six-month trial run for the Fast ForWord technology based reading program at Anne M. Jeans Elementary School. For the past several months, the Board had heard presentations from district administrators and representatives from Scientific Learning Corporation, developers of the Fast ForWord Program. Board members recently held a special October 7 meeting during which they analyzed simulations of the program in anticipation of possible adoption. Superintendent Frank Rink applauded the Board for "doing its homework and for giving thoughtful consideration to how the program will impact the achievement of our students." At its October 15 meeting, the Board gave its approval for a six-month trial with implementation targeted at the early grades.

Fast ForWord is a patented, highly adaptive computer-assisted program that rapidly builds reading and language comprehension skills such as phonemic awareness, auditory processing speed, phonological awareness, working memory; syntax, grammar; sequencing and other critical skills necessary for students to learn to read or to become a better reader. On average, students with language and reading problems make 1 to 2 year gains in language skills after only 4 to 8 weeks of Fast ForWord training. Reports from teachers and parents have shown that these gains last. The program combines progressive CD-ROM and Internet technology with breakthroughs in neuroscience. The training uses acoustically modified sound and methods of cross-training to improve receptive and expressive reading and language skills within a scientifically validated optimal learning environment. Essential elements of this environment are intensity, frequency, motivation and adaptivity.

In other action at its October 15 meeting, the Burr Ridge CCSD #180 Board . . .

. . . was presented with an analysis by Superintendent Rink of individual ISAT scores, and saw a multi-media presentation about Differentiation of Instruction and its contextual relationship to the improvement process at CCSD 180. An improvement model was presented by Dr. Rink demonstrating the relationships of governance and mission, organizational effectiveness, curriculum and instruction, leadership and data-driven decisions, and differentiation of instruction.

. . . saw a video-tape presentation by Band Director Carol Collins and Flag Sponsor Mary Dybos of Flag Squad accomplishments and authorized an expanded Flag Squad program.

. . . reviewed proposed policies relative to Section 400 (First Half) ­ Operational Services - as stipulated in the CCSD 180 Policy Review Schedule.

. . . heard an update by Superintendent Rink about some "reconstruction" at Anne M. Jeans Elementary School and about progress on the cafeteria renovations at BRMS. The middle school cafeteria is scheduled for opening on October 21. The Board also toured the new cafeteria/kitchen facilities.

. . . reviewed a letter of nomination written by Anne M. Jeans Elementary School Principal Mr. Charles Accardi and presented the Board's Award of Excellence to Mrs. Paula Dupont for her exemplary volunteer work.

. . . set Board meeting dates as Thursday, November 14, 2002, and Tuesday, December 17, 2002 in order to meet tax levy hearing date mandates.

. . . agreed to an air-conditioning pilot program at Anne M. Jeans Elementary School as funds become available with the first units to be first installed in rooms which are those exposed to the south afternoon sun.

. . . designated Superintendent Rink as the Activity Fund Treasurer as required by policy.

. . . approved the continuation of the Burr Ridge Park District's day-care program at Anne M. Jeans Elementary School for the summer of 2003.

. . . finalized arrangements for its participation in the November Annual Conference of the Illinois Association of School Boards. Those attending will be Dr. Don Higgins, Mrs. Gloria Pavese, Mr. Bob Mihalkanin and Dr. Frank Rink.

. . . employed Ms. Maria Alvarez as a teacher's aide for the 2002-03 school year and accepted the resignation Ms. Melanie McDermott as teacher's aide.

. . . heard a concern from a parent about students who get too physical during gym and sports events.

. . . heard reports from the Principals as follows:

Dr. Debra LeBlanc reported to the Board that Pat Vlk, Mary Kinsman, Linda Adcock and she attended the Differentiation of Instruction Conference; met with Ed Moyer to plan the October 25 teacher's institute; conference forms, ISAT test reports, and progress reports went home to the parents on Friday; the teachers will have a conference with every parent this year; and the first round of teacher evaluations will be finished by Halloween.

Mr. Charles Accardi reported to the Board that Donna Lehmann, Cathe Smith, Diana Brann and he attended the Differentiation of Instruction Conference; physical education teachers are preparing for Red Ribbon Week; Fire Department and paramedics were at Anne M. Jeans to check a sulfur odor; Anne M. Jeans School was a recipient of a grant for 200 bulbs that Mrs. Brenda Cramer is planting and the children are conducting experiments with some of the bulbs; and the school is getting ready for Harvest Day.

. . . heard reports from superintendent Rink about the following:

Policy on Fee Waivers
April 1, 2003 Board of Education Election
Copy machines
Energy Grant
Installation of Cafeteria Tables - AMJES
Computer Inventory
September 25 Consortium for Educational Change Meeting
Health Insurance
PTC Flyers
Cafeteria Options for 2003-04
School District Report Card
Citizens' Advisory Council
Differentiation Academy
Fire Prevention/Safety Projects
Audit of Fixed Assets
December Mailing to Residents
Impact Aid/PILT Funds
Discussion with Champions Program Administrator

The Board's next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 7:30 p.m. in the Board Room of Burr Ridge CCSD #180.