Learn about best practices to enhance student buy-in and engagement in social studies classrooms by increasing the diversity of the voices in the curriculum, including through student choice and the building of community partnerships. In this session, we will explore examples of the empowering impacts of an antiracist approach to history and bust myths about misconceptions about this approach. Leave with an understanding of how to turn the textbook into a resource for inquiry and how to support student growth through honest and relevant discussion.
This session will show the intersection between the MICIP and strategic planning, highlighting how Kentwood Public Schools successfully integrated these two approaches. Attendees will learn KPS’ approach to strategic planning, systematic implementation, and stakeholder engagement, transforming continuous improvement plans into action. This session provides practical strategies for addressing barriers, celebrating successes, and fostering a cohesive educational environment for sustained excellence.
Step up to the plate and learn how decision-support data systems and improvement cycles can transform MICIP plans into “home runs.” When implementing a new strategy or program for the first time, it’s important to “Get Started, then Get Better!” Participants will learn how to use fidelity, process, and outcome data within a comprehensive data system to make quick, incremental, and scalable implementation improvements in the field. Let’s play ball!
Supporting Strand: Practice
MODERATOR: Michelle Cutcher
BIO: Justin Leach is an Implementation and Improvement Consultant for the Statewide Field Team at Calhoun Intermediate School District. In his role, he provides professional learning and technical assistance for educational leaders at the district, county, and state levels to support implementation, continuous improvement, and refinement of systems. Justin earned his Bachelor of Arts in History and Bachelor of Science in Secondary Social Studies Education from Duquesne University. He completed a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Cincinnati. Over 18 years as an educator, he has served as a high school Social Studies teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, Social Studies Curriculum Manager, and K-12 Testing & Assessment Director at Cincinnati Public Schools. He also previously served as a statewide Social Studies Consultant with the Ohio Department of Education. Justin's expertise includes systems improvement, project management, assessment literacy, data analysis, and social studies education.
