Dr. Jorgensen's May Highlights
May 1, 2021
May Highland Highlights
I was able to do an in person audit for the Highland Community School District on March 30th. I must admit it was nice to return to Iowa for the first time in over a year. This is one of my concluding activities while serving as a consultant for the district. I am very encouraged by many of things that I saw in my visit which I hope to highlight in this article.
One of the most impressive things the district has focused upon in recent years that is really a gold star for the district has been their commitment to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) the district has moved forward in developing a very strong STEM based curriculum program on the high school level. This includes unique programming in Agriculture, Coding, Aerospace Engineering, and Robotics. Calculus, Physics, Aero Space 1 & 2, Spanish 4 and Coding all will have the highest numbers yet next year. Mr. Surine will also be doing a middle school Intro to Engineering next year to use as a recruiting tool to robotics and Aerospace. College level or AP Statistics course being added for next year.
1st Female taking the ACE program. 1st female to complete Auto Academy. 12 females participating in the engineering day with Collins Aerospace. All great things.
Very impressed with what I saw with Agriculture program and the amazing growth in numbers since the program started 4 years ago. The greenhouse is being utilized really well. The program has integrated aquaponics, electricity and mechanics into the Intro classes. Crops still being grown. This is a great program. Instructor has done a great job applying for grant funds. The sequencing of courses is being tweaked and the program looks strong.
Detailed plans for block scheduling are set for the High School Next year. This is a big change, but one I think for the better. 8 period block of 82 minutes. Teachers will teach 6 of 8 blocks, (1) 82 minute prep every other day, (1) 42 minute prep with a duty every other day. Should help all electives numbers.
The elementary work and strategies in Reading are working well. 51% proficient last winter, 42% proficient after the return from COVID, and 59% this winter. This is a very impressive growth in a short time and what makes it even more impressive is under the circumstances around COVID. The elementary staff spent a lot of time this last summer in preparations for adjusted instruction and should be congratulated on what they were able to accomplish. The work around Dyslexia is very impressive and has gained the district some positive notoriety.
There is no doubt that the district’s staff, administration and board have worked hard to provide students a quality education. The district can be proud of what they have done and are continuing to work hard to get even better. I appreciated the chance to visit the district again.
