Staff must buy into any educational reform for it to be effective. Reforms work best when staff are well informed about options and reach a consensus through discussion. To study Understanding by Design mandated by the District, the proposal is for all staff to read chapters 1-2 and for subteams to each read an additional chapter to discuss and present to the whole school the next day. The focus should be on communication, not salesmanship. Staff are also asked to recommend another program to increase student achievement as they learn about UbD.

1. Understanding by Design Staff development Bill Olmstead July 2003

2. Research shows that reforms don’t work if staff does not buy into the program

3. DUH!

5. So, what do we do about the District’s mandate that we study Understanding by Design?

8. DO NOT get too fancy. Focus on communication, not salesmanship.

9. Bring back one idea for another book or program that we should study as we look at increasing student achievement.

10. I encourage you to read the entire book. It is well worth your time and may improve your instruction.

11. Besides, how will you know whether we should make a building commitment to this approach if you haven’t read it all?

12. Have fun!