Action+Research

My action research project was to have our staff utilize Achievement Series with our students in an effort to impact DakotaSTEP scores.


 * Problem**: DakotaSTEP scores are not on track for 100% advanced / proficient.


 * Question**: Will increase training lead to teacher's becoming comfortable with and utilizing achievement series.


 * Plan**: The areas of Language Arts, Science, and Math would recieve a half-day of inservice and a half-day of work time. During the work time, the trainer for achievment series would be here to assist and answer questions.


 * Reflection**: We had trainings previously, but still did not have users of achievement series. When I inquired with the staff why we were still not uitlizing this resource, the summary of the conversation was that the training was with the entire district and teachers struggled when they went on their own to utilize and struggled to find time.

In discussions with the three tested areas, it was determined that a small group with additional training would be helpful, but just as important they wanted work time with a trainer to implement and feel comfortable with achievement series.


 * Implications for Future Work:** The data confirmed that training is valuable, but as important is time to implement and feel comfortable to truly see successful utilization of Achievment Series. When we have change, it's important that we meet the staff where they are.