SLC+Guidelines

Overview of SLC's at RHHS:
Richmond Hill HS will be restructuring into 4 SLCs (Small Learning Communities) - including the Ninth Grade Academy. The three additional Academies are currently in the process of being formed, based on student and teacher interest. The goal is to achieve the following: The development of the SLCs at RHHS is supported by a US DOE grant and will be monitored at several levels. We are expected to develop the SLC program in conformity with the following rubric. Note that it is accepted that we are currently at Level 1 (Beginning) or Level 2 (Approaching). It is expected, however, that we will continue to progress as the SLCs continue to develop and flourish at RHHS. [|SLC Implementation Rubric.doc]
 * **Personalization** - creating a smaller school community that allows students to bond better with a smaller cluster of teachers
 * **Rigor** - helping students achieve at a higher level; making sure that students learn critical thinking skills and how to be independent thinkers
 * **Relevance** - letting students see how their studies relate to life after high school - whether that be to a productive work environment or to a two- or four-year college experience

NYC Resources for SLCs:
[|NYC SLC Link] DOE website explaining the reasons for implementing the SLC model.


 * NYC SLC - Overview of Four Elements:**
 * 1) **Facilitative and Distributive Leadership**
 * 2) **Dedicated Teaching, Learning, and Support Teams**
 * 3) **A Data-Driven System of Accountability**
 * 4) **Rigorous Curriculum and Instruction for all Students, Centered on a Unifying Focus**




 * NYC SLC Cohort 10 Objectives and Evaluation Design (includes a timeline for implementation):**

__ Online Resources for the Development of Small Learning Communities (SLCs): __
[|Solution Tree] Organization that will provide us with support as we transition to a SLC model. Click on the link to go their home page. [|Resources from Solution Tree.]

[|National Academy Foundation] National Academy Foundation (NAF) is an acclaimed national network of high school career academies predominately based in urban districts-schools within schools-with rigorous, career-themed curricula created with current industry and educational expertise.

[|High Schools That Work] Another organization that supports SLCs.

[|National School Reform Faculty] The National School Reform Faculty (NSRF) is a professional development initiative that focuses on developing collegial relationships, encouraging reflective practice, and rethinking leadership in restructuring schools -- all in support of increased student achievement. At the heart of NSRF’s program are the concepts of Facilitative Leadership and Critical Friendship.