Over the past 20 months, Conservatory Lab has collaborated with the Kenny School in Dorchester, along with other Boston public schools, to share best practices in early literacy and interdisciplinary curriculum. On Wednesday,
Kenny School first graders held a celebration of learning at the Adams Street Branch of the Boston Public Library. The enthusiasm was infectious as students shared their published nonfiction books about building materials with families and friends. Students received certificates of achievement for completing the “Building with the Three Little Pigs” learning expedition, and enjoyed snacks in the sun afterward.
On Thursday, all five second grade classrooms held a similar celebration of learning to share their nonfiction question-and-answer books about snakes, the culminating product for their “Truth About Snakes” expedition. Family members in attendance were impressed with students’ depth of knowledge and joy of learning.
Conservatory Lab’s Transforming Literacy Project has provided professional development, coaching, curriculum and other resources to over thirty K2 – Grade 2 Boston Public School teachers. The project was funded by a Department of Elementary and Secondary Education dissemination grant awarded to Conservatory Lab in 2014. The celebrations affirm that Conservatory Lab’s interdisciplinary, project-based approach to literacy instruction engages students in deep learning and fosters pride in high-quality work. Kudos to the Transforming Literacy Project team: Cass Miller, Keuna Cho, Lisa Pacillo, Jenna Gampel, Lauren Dale, and Rhonda Berkower.