Principal Matt Whitten wrote a great article published on August 26 in the Bellingham Herald. As I read it with my grandpa hat on, I wanted my grandkids to go to his school. As I read it with my AWSP hat on, I thought it was great example of evidence for his evaluation, particularly Criterion 1 – Creating a Culture, and Criterion 7 – Engaging Communities. The letter being published in the paper contributed to both of those criteria and included evidence inside it that both of areas are being attended to in very cool ways. The connection to particular programs with fidelity, such as IB, is Criterion 4 – Aligning Curriculum. His efforts to help the staff throughout the year connect their lessons to the established principles is what this leadership criterion is all about.
Check out an excerpt from the article below:
Our new Birchwood Elementary school is just a few weeks away from opening its doors to almost 300 preschool through fifth-grade students. Birchwood was built with innovative technological capabilities and intelligently designed learning spaces. As exciting as the new furniture and the beautiful facility is, what has me energized for the first day of school is the opportunity to develop a vision that represents both the values of the Birchwood community and Bellingham Public Schools.
Seven months ago, I was named planning principal for the new Birchwood. Part of my responsibility has been working with the school's community to develop a vision for the school. Upon investigating and reflecting upon proven school programs as well as looking at The Bellingham Promise, the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program makes great sense for the Birchwood community.
Read the full Bellingham Herald story.