Spring 2021 Academic Update

by Assistant Head of School for Academics David Long

As we all can attest, the past 12 months have been some of the most difficult months in recent memory. Yet during these challenging times, our faculty, staff, students, and families have shown tremendous grit and resilience as we navigate an ever-changing landscape. While I could write at length about Galloway’s response to COVID, I want to instead take this opportunity to talk about the amazing undertakings that have taken place in and out of the classroom this year. 

• For the past year and a half, a committee made up of faculty, staff, and administrators met on a regular basis to reenvision our current schedule for Middle and Upper Learning. The goal was to create a schedule that meets our mission and best supports teaching and learning. We are excited to announce that a new schedule has been created and I invite you to attend our Zoom meeting on Wednesday, March 31, from 8:30-9:30 a.m. to learn about this new schedule for the upcoming school year.  

• We have spent the majority of the professional development days in the fall and spring focused on mapping our curriculum PK-12 as charged by Galloway’s 2021-26 Strategic Plan. Teaching and Learning trained faculty in Coursetune, a highly visual, learner-centered instructional design software for curriculum mapping. Our March 15 and 16 PD days were used to continue the mapping process. This is a multi-year initiative that will better support teaching and learning. 

• Under the guidance of our Chief DEI Officer Dr. Karen Bradberry, faculty began revisiting their curricula with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. For example, the second grade created a new project called “The Story of Me” to build cultural competence. The third grade revamped their biography project to be more inclusive. Dr. Bradberry partnered with Ms. Giattina to introduce a new unit in advisory for ML students. She has partnered with English Language Arts and Social Studies teachers in Upper Learning to talk about curriculum.

• Last year we joined Global Online Academy as a member school and one of the benefits is that they provide free professional development for our faculty. In addition, they offer free classes for Middle Learning students via their Learners For Life Series. A number of our faculty have taken advantage of the free PD offered via GOA this year and our 7th-grade students took part in the Growth, Grit, and Gratitude class that was offered in November. 

While these are just a few highlights, my hope is that you gain a better understanding of the work we have been doing throughout the school year. One of the hallmarks of a great school is that it continues to move forward in times of uncertainty. At Galloway, we continue to do the important work that we have been charged with while remaining focused on the health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff.