Training Our Babies: The Responsive Classroom:

Have you ever heard the term Responsive Classroom? Follow this link to a website where you may learn about the model that is being introduced into the Pre k, Kindergarten and elementary school experience in Englewood. Familiarize yourself with the information, resources and workshops available on this site. Offerings are tailored to Individual Parents and to Districts. Get on top of what the District is planning for your child. Home page for The Responsive Classroom. The site is very Parent friendly.



Donald A. Quarles Pre-k, K

Responsive Classroom  
Explanation of goals: a widely used, research-backed approach to elementary education that increases academic achievement, decreases problem behaviors, improves social skills, and leads to more high-quality instruction

Ask questions based on what you read. Sometimes programs change significantly once they are installed. Many of the attributes that first attracted us to the programs never make it into the actual implementation process. Parent involvement will change that.

• When will the success of the program be assessed? (evaluated)
• How will the program be assessed, and by whom?
• Will Parents be involved in the assessment of the effectiveness of the  program?
• How much will it cost the district?
• Is it for everyone and should the concept be modifiedd and continued through to high school graduation?
• Will ALL teachers participate in training in preparation for the program?
• Ask to see written documentation of what the program is bringing to Englewood children, parents and community.

DMHS board in Main Office

The basic concept of the "Responsive Classroom" is a noble one. It is "Behaviorial Modification with Kid Gloves". That is okay, if it works. The concept should get a mature twist as the students mature and the morning time evolves into "a more interactive and responsive homeroom" where connections are made. If not under supervision, there will be a tendency for this crucial time (of morning meeting) to dissolve into a time for "announcements" and updates on school activities."

All classrooms that work well are ?Responsive Classrooms". Healthy relationships between students in a culturally diverse community must be nurtured by parents, students, teachers, administrators and boards of education members. Teachers must also become more involved in wanting to know about each child in order for the model to work. Discipline and respect goes both ways. Teachers must exercise more self control in dealing with students with different learning styles.

"How are the children?"