NBOE Teacher Talk

Dear Teachers and Instructional Staff,

As we move forward in our commitment to excellence in teaching and learning, I want to commend you for your dedication to implementing Cornell notes and student work portfolios as essential tools in fostering student engagement, critical thinking, and content mastery. Research consistently affirms that structured note-taking and the intentional collection of student work are powerful strategies that enhance comprehension and long-term retention.

The Power of Cornell Notes
Cornell notes serve as more than just an organizational tool—they actively promote higher-order thinking and metacognitive skills. According to Pauk and Owens (2014), “Cornell notes are an effective way to encourage students to summarize, question, and reflect, leading to improved retention and understanding of material.” By consistently reinforcing this strategy, we can help students develop habits that support independent learning and academic success.

I am sharing a student-friendly Cornell notes rubric to be shared with the students to help guide them in their implementation of Cornell notes. This rubric should not be used punitively but rather as a supportive tool to encourage self-assessment and reflection. By using this rubric, students can better understand the expectations and improve their note-taking skills, ultimately enhancing their learning experience.

Leveraging Student Work Portfolios
Student work portfolios provide a comprehensive view of learning progression and allow both teachers and students to reflect on growth over time. Research from Darling-Hammond et al. (2019) underscores that “portfolios not only document learning but also encourage students to take ownership of their progress, fostering deeper engagement and self-efficacy.” I encourage you to make portfolios an integral part of instruction, using them as a foundation for student conferences, formative assessments, and goal setting.

Proactively Using Data to Inform Instruction 
As we continue refining our instructional practices, I urge you to leverage available data—including benchmark assessments, formative checks, and student work analyses—to make informed instructional decisions. Hattie (2009) highlights that “teachers who systematically use data to guide instruction see greater learning gains, as data-driven decision-making allows for targeted interventions and responsive teaching.”

By maintaining momentum in these areas, we will continue to drive student achievement and instructional excellence. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our students and for consistently striving to elevate their learning experiences.

Let’s continue to be Focused, Friendly, Flexible, and Fast in our approach, ensuring that every student receives the best possible education.

Best regards,
Assistant Superintendent Esteves

As we move into the second half of the academic year, I want to thank you for your continued dedication to our students' success. I am writing to remind you that the Quarter 2 Benchmark Assessments will open tomorrow, January 22, 2025, and remain open through January 30, 2025.
 
Benchmark assessments play a pivotal role in informing our instructional practices. According to research, "benchmark assessments provide critical insights into student progress and help educators identify both strengths and areas for targeted intervention" (Black & Wiliam, 2018). These assessments allow us to monitor growth, adjust our teaching strategies, and ensure we are meeting the diverse needs of our learners.
 
All students are expected to complete the benchmark assessments during this testing window. Full participation not only offers an accurate representation of student performance but also promotes equity in our instructional delivery and support. As you prepare for this week, I encourage you to set aside adequate time for testing and proactively address any logistical or technical challenges.
 
Together, we can leverage this critical tool to drive student achievement and maintain high standards for all.
 
Thank you for your unwavering commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.

Assistant Superintendent Esteves

Dear Teachers and Instructional Staff,

Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, I want to express my sincere gratitude for the dedication, creativity, and passion you bring to our classrooms each day. Your tireless efforts make a profound difference in the lives of our students, and I am excited to see all that we will accomplish together in the year ahead.

As we continue our journey of excellence in Teaching and Learning, I want to remind you of the importance of two key practices that are integral to student success: utilizing Cornell Notes and building student work portfolios. Research underscores the value of these strategies. Jacobs (2008) found that Cornell Notes improve organizational skills and significantly enhance retention and understanding of material, empowering students to become active and reflective learners. Similarly, Paulson and Meyer (1991) emphasize that student portfolios are transformative tools, offering a living, growing collection of work that showcases their efforts, progress, and achievements. These practices not only enrich learning but also foster critical thinking, self-assessment, and ownership of their educational journey.

As we move forward, let us collectively recommit to these approaches, ensuring they are fully embedded in our instructional practices. Together, we can continue to nurture an environment where students thrive, achieving excellence and personal growth.

Thank you for your hard work and dedication to our mission. Here’s to a successful and inspiring year ahead!

Assistant Superintendent Esteves

Dear Teachers and Instructional Staff,

As we approach winter recess, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on all that has been accomplished so far this school year. You and your students have put in unwavering effort, and your students’ progress is a testament to your commitment and dedication. Additionally, be mindful that the new year provides us with an opportunity to reset and reground ourselves in what is most important to the success and well-being of our students.

On behalf of everyone here at the District, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to you and your families. May your holidays be joyful and the new year bring continued growth and blessings.

Warm regards,

Superintendent León, Deputy Superintendent Severe, and Assistant Superintendent Esteves

Message from the Office of Teaching and Learning

Dear Teachers and Instructional Staff,

I hope this message finds you well. I want to remind you that Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled for Thursday, December 5, 2024. These conferences are a cornerstone of fostering strong partnerships between school and home, as research consistently shows that parental involvement is a key lever for student success.

According to a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, students whose parents are actively involved in their education tend to have higher academic achievement, better attendance, and improved behavior in school (Fan & Chen, 2001). Furthermore, the National Education Association emphasizes that effective communication between teachers and parents can lead to increased student motivation and engagement (NEA, 2010).

As educators, you play a pivotal role in creating meaningful connections with families. These conferences provide an invaluable opportunity to celebrate student achievements, discuss areas for growth, and collaborate on strategies to ensure each child reaches their full potential. Your efforts to engage parents and families are instrumental in building trust and fostering a shared commitment to student success.

Thank you for your dedication to nurturing these vital partnerships and for the care and professionalism you bring to these important conversations. Together, we can make a significant impact on our students' educational journeys.

Warm regards,

Sylvia Esteves
Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning

Message from the Office of Teaching and Learning

Dear Teachers and Instructional Staff,

As Thanksgiving approaches, I want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for each of you. Your hard work and commitment to educating, caring for, nurturing, and supporting the academic and social-emotional development of our students is truly remarkable. Your loving hands during this holiday season help to uplift our neediest and most vulnerable children and families.

For all the love you give and the dedication you show in ensuring that our children and their families thrive, we thank you and honor you. Your selfless generosity and nurturing support make a profound difference in the lives of our students.

It is an honor to work alongside such inspiring individuals who shape not only lives but also the fabric of our entire community. Every day, you bring knowledge, compassion, and hope into our classrooms, creating a legacy that extends far beyond the school walls.

May your Thanksgiving be filled with warmth, laughter, and the company of loved ones. Wishing you and your families a holiday filled with peace, joy, and all the things you hold dear.

With deepest heartfelt appreciation,

Assistant Superintendent Esteves

Message from the Office of Teaching and Learning

Dear Teachers and Instructional Staff,

As we approach the end of the first marking period, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible work you’ve accomplished so far. It’s truly inspiring to witness the progress happening across our schools! Reflection is a vital part of growth, so I encourage you to take some time to consider all that you and your students have achieved together.

One of the most exciting initiatives we’ve embraced this year is the use of Cornell Notes and the emphasis on student work portfolios. These tools are not just strategies; they provide our students with meaningful opportunities to engage deeply in their learning and take ownership of their academic journeys. By incorporating Cornell Notes into your daily practice, you’re helping students organize their thoughts, enhance their comprehension, and develop lifelong learning habits.

As we close the first marking period, the rigorous work reflected in the curriculum's culminating activities will ensure that students are applying everything they have learned. These examples will serve as stellar representations of the learning process across all content areas and should be included in their portfolios.

I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact this initiative is having in our classrooms. I’m confident that as we continue, student portfolios will not only showcase the work they’ve completed but also highlight the growth they’ve experienced. These portfolios will be fantastic to share with parents, providing a clear representation of each student’s journey and achievements throughout the year.

As we move into the new marking period, let’s continue to challenge our students, celebrate their progress, and nurture their potential. Together, we can help them grow not only academically but also as individuals prepared for life beyond the classroom.

Thank you for your unwavering dedication to teaching and learning. Together, we are building a brighter future for our students!

Have a great week of teaching and learning!

Assistant Superintendent Esteves

School Leadership Council (SLC) and Subcommittee Updates (New)

In September, we hosted a joint briefing of all Principals and SLC Chairpersons to review the research that supports the collaborative work highlighted in the new NTU Contract.

While Rutgers is leading this work with us, 16 schools, identified as Cohort 1, will be the first set of schools where the entire SLC will undergo extensive training.

All other schools are required to ensure that their SLCs are fully functional and will undergo the same SLC training as Cohort 1 later in the year.

As it relates to the five subcommittees, the NTU created a process for you to apply here.

• Click here for an FAQ to answer your questions.
• Here is the Research from Rutgers that supports the collaborative work in the NTU contract.  
•  The 16 schools in Cohort 1 can be found here.