Strong Student-Teacher Relationships Form Foundation for Success at Dresden
They ’ re called parent-teacher conferences . But for Dresden Elementary fourth-graders , a more accurate term might be student-parent-teacher conferences .
“ Dresden Elementary ’ s success has been primarily caused by the relationships we have with our students ,” said Principal Mike Laughrey . “ They just feel like they ’ re welcome .”
When teachers at 2015 SCORE Prize finalist school Dresden Elementary meet with parents twice each year , the student involved is always present and at the center of the conversation , said fourth-grade teacher Honey Cantrell .
“ It ’ s more of a student-led conference ,” said Ms . Cantrell . “ They know where they are . They can articulate their goals .”
At Dresden , students thoroughly understand what is expected of them . Kids are taught to articulate the details of academic goals and performance . Students can see for themselves the sources of educator concerns , allowing kids and teachers to forge close relationships and work together as a team .
The results are remarkable . Dresden , which won the 2014 SCORE Prize , has made strong gains across reading , math , and science over the past three years and narrowed achievement gaps in reading , math , and science . Instruction is highly differentiated across the school , and a Response to Instruction and Intervention ( RTI2 ) process involving all students ensures that each child receives exactly what they need . Each child is treated as an individual , personally and academically .
Dresden is a Title I school , where 80 percent of students receive free and reduced meals . Student body demographics have no bearing on the school ’ s expectations for achievement , though resources are planned and student needs are met accordingly .
“ For the majority of the children who some to Dresden Elementary , this is the best part of their day ,” said Mr . Laughrey . “ The faculty takes that very seriously .”
Students are treated with love , care , and respect . And the relationship is mutual – students have many opportunities to contribute to the school , benefiting everyone involved . Dresden has a Citizen of the Month program , as well as a Citizen of the Year program incorporating volunteer hours for fourth-graders . Third-graders help work the school ’ s car line , opening doors and welcoming kids to school each morning .
“ We recognize children for good behavior and effort ,” said Mr . Laughrey . “ It ’ s key to academic performance . They have bought into it .”
A critical component of student-teacher relationships at Dresden is clear communication of objectives and individualized instruction . The
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