EVSC's McGary Middle School Receives More than $1M for School Improvement
McGary Middle School was announced today by the Indiana Department of Education as the recipient of a nearly $1.1 million 1003(g) School Improvement Grant (SIG) to implement a Transformational Model for school improvement. This is EVSC’s third school to receive the SIG grant – Glenwood Leadership Academy was awarded the grant in 2010-Cohort 1; and Evans K-6 was awarded the grant in 2011-Cohort 2.
McGary’s SIG application builds on the improvement efforts the school has already implemented including the Equity Model and the TAP System for Teacher and Student Advancement in integrating STE(A)M (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).
“Indiana is committed to providing communities the resources and support they need to drive effective school improvement efforts,” State Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Tony Bennett said in the announcement earlier today. “Our pro-active approach steps in before schools hit the critical point and require more drastic interventions down the road. The three schools receiving these grants have expressed a strong desire to dramatically improve student performance and a willingness to do what it takes to achieve that goal.”
McGary’s initial year of funding for the 2012-2013 school year is $1,083,287.59. This funding will create opportunities for staff to integrate curriculum and instructional strategies in an effort to provide students with deeper, more personal learning experiences and engagement.
SIG grants are a targeted effort to catalyze significant increases in student achievement. Grants are renewable for up to three years dependent upon fidelity of implementation and renewal criteria based on student leading indicators and school improvement data.
McGary’s Transformational Improvement efforts will include:
• STE(A)M–Infused Curriculum, Core Learning Experiences, Instructional Materials, Teaching Staff, and Community Partnerships that will enhance the Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics integration and focus.
• Increased time for staff collaboration and professional development
• Teacher Performance Bonuses tied to evaluation and student achievement
• Extended learning time after school and throughout the summer for students
• Increased technology usage and embedded professional development
• Student behavior supports and counseling services
• Incentives to recruit, attract, and retain highly effective staff
According to a news release from the IDOE, “Using a competitive application process, the SIG program provides funds to schools demonstrating a serious commitment to raising student academic achievement through comprehensive improvement plans. The program is federally funded but administered at the state level. “
