In a recent Educational Leadership article, Pamela Spycher and Kim Austin from WestEd’s Leading with Learning project describe their work with Fresno Unified School District (CA) to shift writing from the periphery to the center of teaching and learning. One diverse elementary school is highlighted to show how the district prioritized quality writing experiences and the academic achievement of culturally and linguistically diverse students, particularly English learner students.

Through inquiry-based professional learning that included intensive coursework and collaboration, teachers in the school focused on demystifying the language in different written genres, integrating writing in all disciplines, and promoting authentic student voice. Site leadership and ongoing coaching were critical to the success of the approach, and through this systemic and collective approach, teachers became more intentional and focused in their writing instruction. As a result, they fundamentally changed the way learning and writing happens in their classrooms.

Read the article.

Learn more about Leading with Learning.