Unleashing the Power of Proficiency Based Learning through Performance Based Assessments
Saturday, April 4th, 2:40pm - 3:55pm - Session III
Proficiency based learning ensures that outcomes are clear, shared, and rigorous and that students are supported in achieving them. Performance based assessment helps every student find an entry point into demonstrating deep, rigorous learning. These are key ingredients in personalized learning. Over the course of 3 years, Rhode Island educators convened to develop a framework for proficiency based learning and aligned performance based assessments to pilot across the state. Explore how Ponaganset High School used these resources to deepen their focus on equity through literacy for all. Participants will gain familiarity with proficiency based learning tools and resources and discuss how a unified, systematic approach to teaching and assessing literacy skills can empower students and unleash new opportunities and learning.
Amanda Grundel is Assistant Principal at Ponaganset High School, which is located in North Scituate, RI. She received her B.A. in Secondary English Education, her B.A. in Drama and her M. Ed. in Literacy from Rhode Island College. She then earned her M.S. in Administration from The University of Scranton. She is an active member of the Massachusetts Reading Association, having presented her literacy knowledge at various conferences. In addition, her work on school-wide literacy practices has been published in Principal Leadership Journal. She resides in West Warwick, RI with her husband and nine-year-old son.
Courtney Jacobs is a senior associate with Great Schools Partnership. She joined GSP after 16 years of teaching and leading in progressive public schools across the country. In addition, she served as an adjunct instructor of Applied Mathematics at Brown University, co-founding a partnership between The Met School and Brown University’s Applied Math and Engineering departments. Courtney is the recipient of a Raytheon Math Heroes Award as well and the University of Rhode Island’s Unsung Heroine award. Courtney graduated from Dartmouth College with a BA in Anthropology and a minor in Public Policy. She earned her master’s degree in Education from Tufts University and she completed her teacher training at The Shady Hill School in Cambridge, MA. She lives in Pawtucket, RI with her husband and two children.