Common use of Mutual Understandings Clause in Contracts

Mutual Understandings. The parties acknowledge that the 4th - 6th Grades Model is a comprehensive approach that infuses multiple aspects of instruction, curriculum, teaching and learning. Successful 4th - 6th Grades Model implementation rests upon basic understandings: ● Language and cognitive development for young English Learners is strengthened through an articulated 4th - 6th grades developmental model. This requires equal participation, collaboration, and alignment of the early childhood education and the 4th - 6th grades systems. ● Meaningful, articulated and consistent implementation 4th - 6th grades of instructional improvement and curriculum realignment to the Common Core require an investment in professional development, coaching, and grade-level collaboration and planning. ● Biliteracy is an asset, with many benefits to children and society. Furthermore, the home language plays a powerful role in language and literacy development for young dual language children along with the development of English. Both bilingual programs and SEI classroom settings have a role to play in affirming bilingual development. ● The 4th - 6th Grades Model is simultaneously a powerful early foundation for English Learners and an implementation of the Common Core language arts standards for all students. Both call for a sustained multi-year investment in curriculum realignment, professional development and building institutional capacity. “Holding the course” over the 2 year duration of the implementation effort will produce the deepest outcomes the 4th - 6th Grades Model can deliver. ● The District is fully committed to implementation and has secured affirmative support for replicating the 4th - 6th Grades Model across multiple levels of stakeholders in the district – teachers, coaches, principals, district staff, Superintendent and school board.