Teaching & Learning

Philosophy of Differentiation

  • A key component to implementing the Illinois Learning Standards is adopting a teaching philosophy of differentiation. 

    Priority Initiatives for Teaching and Learning

    • Focus on Standards/Essential Understandings: Align with Illinois Learning Standards.
    • Focus on Formative Assessment: Align with the state’s Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) accountability system with an emphasis on formative assessment.
    • Focus on Data-Driven Decision Making: Ongoing analysis of data for instructional planning.
    • Focus on Shared, Systemic, Strategic, Sustainable, Evidence-Based Strategies: Address both the adaptive challenges and technical procedures for change.