Schoolwide Writing Programs, Plans and Policies
Elementary Level Writing Plan This plan was designed as a template for schools to use and modify as necessary to fit individual building curricular needs. This plan also includes a sample SBDM policy.
Writer’s Workshop Handbook- Joplin, MO Resource This resource booklet follows the types of writing requirements in the common core.
Developing a School-wide Writing Plan
Developing a School Writing Plan Power Point
“Each school-based decision making council or if there is no school council, a committee appointed by the principal, shall adopt policies that determine the writing program for its school.” KRS 158.6451 (2009)
What is the difference between a writing program, plan and policy?
v Program – includes the components that will be evaluated in the writing program review process:
Curriculum and instruction
Formative and summative assessments
Professional development and support services
Administrative/Leadership support and monitoring
What is required for a school’s writing program?
“The writing program shall incorporate a variety of language resources, technological tools, and multiple opportunities for students to develop complex communication skills for a variety of purposes.” Sec 2(7)(c)(2)
What should a school’s writing program do?
The program should empower teachers to use a variety of teaching approaches to meet the needs of individual learners.
v Plan - a schoolwide writing plan describes the action to be taken by teachers in order to implement the school’s writing program, including what will be learned and how it will be assessed.
v Policy – the rules and guidelines adopted by SBDM to be implemented in the school’s writing program. School writing policies should address:
> Communication skills
> Grading procedures and feedback to students regarding their writing and communication skills
> Responsibility for the review of the portfolios and feedback to students
> Other policies to improve the quality of an individual student’s writing and communication skills
| Program | Policy | Plan |
| * instruction (teachers, administrators, and students)* curriculum (courses, materials, instructors, etc. – might include portfolios and opportunities to write across the curriculum)* assessment (formative and summative)* infrastructure supports –writing centers, tutoring, community outreach for writing/communications
*opportunities for students to share writing publically * district and administrative support and roles * professional development to support teacher growth and student learning |
* the rules and guidelines adopted by SBDM to be followed in writing programs | *the actions taken to achieve measurable goals that meet needs of students at each individual school*what will be learned* how it will be assessed* what and how program will be implemented, including strategies for implementing the plan |
