Over the last 3 years there have been many measures taken to improve student achievement. Without data-driven decisions there can be no real analysis of student achievement or teacher accountability. As a result, last year the Performance Series tests in reading and math were implemented in grades 3 through 8. These web-based tests are given in September, December and May so a picture develops of each student's progress or problem areas. Through the Skills Connection, teachers are able to print out worksheets that specifically target each student's problem areas. This year, in kindergarten through 3rd grade, students were also tested in reading by the Illinois Snapshot of Early Literacy (ISEL) tests. This tool gives the teacher a very exact picture of each student's strengths and weaknesses.

Another source of data for reading is the STAR test that is given as a placement tool for the Accelerated Reading program. This nationally-recognized supplemental program has been very successful in encouraging students to read. Over the last three years, this program has spread to all eight grades. This year a librarian was hired to offer extra help in choosing books and to speed the ordering of new books. Over the last three years, $50,000 of new books has been purchased.

This year Lincoln was successful in winning a Reading First Grant from the State of Illinois. The purpose of this grant is to provide funds to improve reading achievement in kindergarten through 3rd grade. Because of this grant we were able to purchase a new basal reader and supplemental materials, including many leveled books. We were also able to hire a Reading Coach, whose sole purpose is to work with these teachers to improve reading instruction. This program also provides workshops to further train these teachers.

Two years ago Lincoln began a block reading time for 1st through 3rd grade classes. During that time, another teacher is added to each grade level to teach reading and therefore lower class sizes for more individual attention.

We searched for successful programs to help our older students who were not yet at grade level in reading and writing. This year we implemented the Read 180 program for thirty 4th graders, thirty 5th graders, thirty 7th graders and thirty 8th graders. Each class has 15 students who take part in a well-researched and successful program that utilizes a computer learning/testing program, leveled books and a unique curriculum. Students love this program and the majority of students are making significant gains.

To help 4th through 8th grade teachers improve instruction in reading, writing and math Lincoln partnered with our school improvement partner, the Cooperative Community for Teaching and Learning. They provided us with a Coach, who taught a series of workshops on Balanced Literacy. She is currently modeling lessons, observing teachers and meeting with teachers with the goal of improving instruction and incorporating Balanced Literacy into every classroom. A Math Coach is also modeling lessons, observing teachers and meeting with teachers. The Cooperative is also providing a Coach to help the articulation between pre-school and kindergarten.

Lincoln School believes in a comprehensive education, so we offer Art and Music to students in kindergarten through 8th grade and Band to students in 5th through 8th grades. 6th through 8th graders may also select from a wide array of classes during our Explorer period. Some of the classes are Introduction to Power Point, Computer Skills, Drama, Choir, Career Awareness, Mass Media and Film Making.

Technologically, Lincoln has few peers. There are telephones in every classroom, every teacher has voice mail and E-mail and there is a Homework Hotline where parents can call in for each day's homework assignments. This Hotline system will also call parents with important recorded messages and let parents know when students are absent. Lincoln's website also has much information for parents. Every classroom has a television and VCR.

Every classroom has at least one computer connected to the Internet and last year the whole building was wired so that computers can be operated from any classroom in a wireless environment. Lincoln has a computer lab with 24 hard-wired computers, but to offer more whole-class instruction with computers, we acquired four wireless mobile labs with laptops. Two SMART Boards enable teachers to perform electronic magic as they're teaching.

Last year Lincoln added a Growing-Up Ready Lab for 6th through 8th grade students, who learn life skills through this multi-media lab. They learn about Mathematics in the Kitchen, Parenting, Space Planning, Banking, Cartography and much more.

Administration and faculty understand that involving parents and other loved ones in a student's education is critical, so Lincoln has made it a goal this year to increase that involvement. The year began with a Welcome Back Festival for parents and students and we recently held a Grandparent's Day, which was very successful. A Student of the Month Tea has been added this year. We invite parents to join the Students of the Month in a celebration for kindergarten through 5th grade students. Other events that focus on parents are: computer classes, workshops on parenting and health, Open House, Parent/Teacher Conferences, Craft Day, Holiday Concert, Black History Celebration, Science Fair, Art Festival, Talent Show and Family Reading Night.

A Parent Advisory Committee began last year with five members. This year the goal is to expand that Committee so there are more voices included. We want parents and loved ones to feel welcome and appreciated and know that we very much need their input and involvement so we can provide the best possible education for each student.

We're excited about the programs, technology and facilities we offer students, but the most important asset Lincoln can offer is a quality teaching staff. We are very fortunate to have an experienced and dedicated staff that understands that a teacher can never stop learning and growing. Lincoln School District 156 believes that all students, parents and faculty members are a united family of life-long learners.