CFSD-Strategic-Plan School-Goals Web 01.30 RF PDF

C A TA L I N A F O O TH I L L S S C H O O L D I ST RI C T
Growth
Mindset
Transfer
Academic
Achievement Deep
Self-regulated Learning
Learning Proficiencies
College and Career
Readiness

S T R A T E G I C P L AN
2014 – 2020
CITIZENSHIP = CRITICAL THINKING & PROBLEM SOLVING =CREATIVITY & INNOVATION = COLLABORATION =COMMUNICATION =SYSTEMS THINKING
C A T A L IN A F O O T H IL L S S C H O O L D IS T R IC T
S UPERINTENDENT ’ S M ESSAGE • G OVERNING B OARD
Dear Community:
We are pleased to share our Catalina Foothills School District (CFSD) Envision21-Deep Learning Strategic Plan
2014-2020 that identifies work priorities for a five-year period. It builds on achievements to-date and
perpetuates our vision of 21st century learning.
Our 2014-2020 plan outlines our commitment to prepare our students well for a 21st
century life that is increasingly complex and global. We are determined to create a
learning environment in which each student achieves intellectual and personal
excellence.
Teaching and learning are at the heart of our enterprise. We know that a dynamic
curriculum that engages students in deep learning taught by highly competent
professionals who are held accountable for learning results is key to our students'
success here.
The Catalina Foothills School District is the leading PreK-12 educational choice for
families in the greater Tucson area. We hope that you will join us in getting the word
out to others who are looking for a school where students are engaged in thinking deeply about complex
issues. We have high expectations for achievement, and our students meet them. The vast majority of our
students continue their learning at the college/university level. We are proud that they are prepared well for
what comes next in their lives.
Sincerely,
Mary Kamerzell, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools
Governing Board Contact Administration

Amy Bhola, President Murphey Administration Center Mary Kamerzell, Ph.D., Superintendent
Amy Krauss, Vice President 2101 E. River Road Mary Jo Conery, Ed. D., Associate Superintendent
Doug Hadley, Board Member Tucson, AZ 85718 Denise Bartlett, Ed. D., Assistant Superintendent
Eileen Jackson, Board Member 520-209-7500 Phone
Carole Siegler, Board Member 520-209-7570 Fax
www.cfsd16.org

C A T A L IN A F O O T H IL L S S C H O O L D IS T R IC T
Catalina Foothills School District, a caring and collaborative Learning transfers to life beyond the Catalina Foothills School
MISSION
VISION
learning community, ensures that each student achieves District experience, enabling each student to flourish as a
OUR
OUR
intellectual and personal excellence, and is well prepared responsible citizen in the global community.
for college and career pathways.
We believe that the human capacity to learn is boundless. Therefore, We invest in the intellectual and
we embrace the obligation to actualize the following shared core Excellence personal achievement of each student,
values to create a learning environment that supports maximum set high expectations, and focus on
achievement. continuous improvement.
We accept and value the unique needs

of all students, and allocate resources We meet high ethical standards and
Equity to provide the learning environment Integrity practice honesty and sincerity in
necessary to reach each student’s relationships and actions.
potential.
OUR SHARED CORE VALUES
We believe in one’s personal capacity to

We inspire inquisitive thinking,
make a difference, invest in the hard Curiosity exploration, investigation, a thirst for
Commitment work needed to realize goals, and seek
knowledge, and a desire to learn.
ways to continuously improve.

We encourage critical thinking and

We create a culture in which each
Belonging Innovation problem solving so that students
student feels safe, welcome, supported,
explore and generate new ideas to
included, and connected.
create something valuable and unique.

We care about others; express We develop an environment where
Compassion kindness, concern, and empathy; and Risk Taking errors and questions are welcomed as
help others through action. opportunities to learn.
We understand and accept the impact

We help students focus, follow through

and consequences of personal actions
Responsibility Perseverance on tasks to completion, and seek ways
and decisions, and recognize and fulfill
to reach goals when faced with
obligations to self, others, and the
obstacles.
community.

We appreciate the unique qualities of

We build the capacity to face,
Respect others; seek to understand Resilience overcome, and ultimately be
perspectives, and display courtesy and
strengthened by challenges.
consideration for all.
OUR DEEP LEARNING GOALS

Reduce the gap between current and Raise the engagement of students so they Partner with families and community to
❶ desired student academic achievement. ❷ are highly motivated to set and achieve ❸ ahieve our strategic priorities.
Ø Increase the achievement of literacy increasingly challenging goals for deep Ø Engage in regular meaningful
and numeracy in all academic learning. communication about student
content areas by addressing Ø Develop positive academic mindsets so learning.
students’ diverse needs and students are more confident learners Ø Foster strong relationships with and
abilities. who feel they belong to the CFSD among CFSD alumni.
Ø Develop knowledge and skills that academic community, succeed in their
transfer to college, careers, and learning, grow their competence with
civic life. effort, and find value in their work.
Ø Develop the deep learning proficiencies
of citizenship, critical thinking and
problem solving, creativity and
innovation, communication,
collaboration, and systems thinking
(5c + s = dlp).
ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING
STRATEGIC PLAN OVERVIEW
The major aim of schooling is to enable students to become the architects of

their own education so that they can invent themselves
during the course of their lives.
-Elliot W. Eisner
INTRODUCTION
In the Catalina Foothills School District (CFSD), our mission and vision influence all of our strategic planning
and subsequent improvement work. We want to graduate self-regulated lifelong learners who are well
equipped for what comes next (and beyond) in their 21st century life as responsible citizens in a global society.
What comes next for most of our students after high school graduation is continuing education in the short-
term. Hopefully, the long-term brings a satisfying, productive personal existence through which they
contribute positively as citizens of the larger community. Basically, our mission is about helping our students
become well prepared for college and career pathways.
The CFSD strategic planning process contributes significantly to the district’s ability to meet reasonable and
appropriate goals and establish a culture of continuous improvement. We intentionally define goals for
improvement that drive our professional work during a specific time frame, typically 3-5 years. However, the
strategies that drive the work of the plan are adaptable and responsive to changing circumstances and
conditions. Because it is impossible to do everything that needs attention simultaneously, a strategic plan sets
out the organizational actions that are of the highest priority.
We focus our resources across all departments on achieving the district’s strategic priorities. For example, the
annual budget is heavily influenced by the desired results outlined in the strategic plan. We allocate, and
reallocate, dollars to support our improvement plans. Another example is the deployment of human resources.
We recruit, hire, and retain staff that share our commitment to a 21st century education and show the greatest
promise to contribute positively to the achievement of our mission. We support their professional development
throughout their careers in CFSD.
Individual CFSD schools create improvement plans within the context of the district’s strategic plan. It is the
expectation that each school analyzes its relevant learning data, identifies gaps between “what is” and “what
should be,” and use an annual planning process to establish specific goals for improvement of student
achievement. We believe that based on multiple measures of performance and a long-established culture of
continuous improvement, CFSD is a successful system of schools. However, we also know that there is always
significant growth potential to improve learning outcomes.
A strategic planning process is key to determining focuses for district-wide systemic improvement. It is a
planning tool to help the system tend to excellence and equity of educational outcomes. The CFSD strategic
plan focuses our system on the highest priority goals that will improve the learning outcomes produced by
students. In order to expand our capacity to get the results we want, we need to pay attention to the systemic
structures or the interrelationships of the elements of the system in order to leverage change over time to
improve student learning.
HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE
Prior to the current strategic plan, the Catalina Foothills School District "worked" three strategic plans spanning
fifteen years. The CFSD Strategic Plan 2005-2009 was the beginning of an explicit focus on 21st century skill
building. A large-scale strategic planning process identified 21st century learning as a priority for the district.
This was important because the adoption of that plan was a formal commitment to pursue this work as a
system.
ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING • Catalina Foothills School District • cfsd16.org 1

Initially, there were few resources and tools available on 21st century skill-building or translating 21st century
learning into action. The district was faced with the challenge of trying to foresee the future needs of
students, how those new demands might impact our approach to student learning, and the complex process of
implementation. Leadership and resources from organizations, such as the Partnership for 21st Century Learning
and the Metiri Group, provided guidance in our early efforts.
CFSD engaged community members in a process that led to the identification of specific 21st century skills. This
advisory committee of local business leaders, entrepreneurs, university professors, students, parents, and
teachers considered the knowledge and skills that students will need for success during and beyond their PreK-
12 educational experience. Their work initiated a focus on the formal development of these skills as an
outcome for all students. What followed was a long-term action plan to collaboratively design and align
curriculum, instruction, and assessment, embedding these identified 21st century skills into daily teaching and
learning practices. We quickly learned that the work was not a linear process with an end point. Instead, it has
been, and continues to be a dynamic, fluid, and constantly evolving process. Because it is our teachers who
implement the work directly with their students, we believe that they need to be the main drivers in its
creation.
Over the years, CFSD has continued to sharpen the focus through the ongoing development of professional
practices and the revision of curriculum and assessments to more fully engage students in relevant, authentic
learning contexts. Feedback and reflection have resulted in adjustments along the way. The accomplishments
of the former strategic plans positioned us for the strategic planning effort that lead to the new plan that is
currently underway.
STRATEGIC PLAN 2014 – 2020: MOVING BEYOND 21ST CENTURY SKILLS

CFSD utilized educational research, professional literature, and three years of district performance data to
prepare for the process of creating the current strategic plan, and to better understand the characteristics and
actions of high performing districts. The data and information were communicated through a 233-page report
entitled, Reframing Catalina Foothills School District's System for Learning in the 21st Century. Taken in the
aggregate, this research base and the analysis of the data between 2010 and 2013 provided clear guidance on
the actions the district could take to dramatically increase its effectiveness. The CFSD Governing Board
engaged in a study of the report, which included an analysis of data received from CFSD parents, teachers,
students, and administrators. These data, along with a variety of other information sources, influenced the
new goals in the strategic plan. After months of discussion and deliberation at public board meetings, the CFSD
Governing Board adopted the district’s current strategic plan in June 2014.
CFSD’s new strategic plan, Envision21 – Deep Learning 2014-2020, includes a

revised Mission that communicates the district’s commitment or primary
purpose, and a new Vision that describes the optimal future state the
district aspires to for all students. The thirteen (13) Shared Core Values are
deeply held beliefs that guide the district’s actions and decisions in order to
maximize achievement.
The strategic plan sets out three main goals, each with two related sub-
goals:
1) Reduce the gap between current and desired student academic
achievement.
• Increase the achievement of literacy and numeracy in all

academic content areas by addressing students’ diverse needs
and abilities.
• Develop knowledge and skills that transfer to college,
careers, and civic life.

2) Raise the engagement of students so they are highly motivated to set and achieve increasingly
challenging goals for deep learning.
• Develop positive academic mindsets so students are more confident learners who feel they
belong to the CFSD academic community, succeed in their learning, grow their competence with
effort, and find value in their work.
• Develop the deep learning proficiencies of citizenship, critical thinking and problem solving,
creativity and innovation, communication, collaboration, and systems thinking (5c + s = dlp).
3) Partner with families and community to achieve our strategic priorities.
• Engage in regular meaningful communication about student learning.

• Foster strong relationships with and among CFSD alumni.
The Envision21: Deep Learning strategic plan preserves the prior focus on 21st century skill building, but
reframes the skills as deep learning proficiencies with attention to self-regulation and mindsets. The explicit
aim is deep learning that goes beyond the mastery of existing content knowledge to creating and using new
knowledge and transferring it to new contexts. Instruction shifts from “coverage” of required content to
embracing a focus on the learning process, and developing students’ capacity in the learning skills that
empower them to take ownership of their learning (e.g., goal setting, self-monitoring, persistence, self-
reflection).
The 2014-2020 strategic plan moves the system forward, challenging us to create relevant and rigorous
curriculum that deeply engages our students through collaborative project approaches and other inquiry-based
experiences. To be prepared for their future, our students need a more advanced set of skills – the capacity to
think about problems in new ways, to design their own solutions, and to collaborate and communicate in
diverse settings. It is no longer a question of academic success or work preparation or civic contribution, but
rather a combination of all of these.

KEY CONCEPTS OF ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING STRATEGIC PLAN

Deep learning for students requires deep learning for educators. The key to helping our students pursue and
demonstrate deep learning is to invest in the ongoing professional learning that builds the capacity to do this
work. It requires a culture in which what and how we teach becomes the ongoing focus of peer analysis,
discussion, and improvement. The iterative process of working with others to use evidence of student learning
to enhance individual and collective practice is vital to improved pedagogy that maximizes student
achievement.
The strategic plan is designed to advance our capacity to support student and adult learning. Defining the key
concepts in the strategic plan, and building a collective common language around them, enables us to more
consistently and effectively design professional learning and implement the goals and associated strategies that
will lead to student success. Unless we have developed a common language with a shared understanding of the
key concepts in our strategic plan, our call for deep learning will remain a worthy goal, but almost impossible
to translate into purposeful classroom practice.
The primary focus of the Envision21 – Deep Learning strategic plan is to support and improve academic
achievement. Six (6) key concepts were built into the plan that we believe will positively influence this
outcome. They are Deep Learning, Transfer, Deep Learning Proficiencies (DLPs), College and Career Readiness,
Academic Mindsets, and Learning How to Learn. These concepts are more explicitly discussed and defined
below.
DEEP LEARNING
A review of the relevant literature and multiple models/frameworks contributed to the district’s
definition and understanding of deep learning. They include the Hewlett Foundation (2013),
Partnership for 21st Century Learning (P21) Framework (2010, 2014), The Four Keys to College and
Career Readiness (Conley, 2013, 2014), The New Pedagogies (Fullan & Langworthy, 2014) and the
National Research Council (NRC) Education for Life and Work (2012). While descriptions and/or
definitions of deep[er] learning in these models may vary somewhat, there is enough similarity to
provide common elements from which to base our definition and move toward approaches that lead to
deep learning.
CFSD defines deep learning as requisite knowledge and skills that students need to learn efficiently to
succeed in college, careers, and civic life. It is a process that enables students to become more
proficient at developing a deeper understanding of rigorous academic content, and the ability to
transfer and apply that understanding to novel problems and situations. It is also an outcome that
results from the self-directed transfer of knowledge and skills to the understanding and mastery of
complex content.
In classrooms where deep learning is the focus, students develop a range of skills to deeply engage in
and take ownership of their learning. They have positive mindsets that help them learn more
efficiently, and they believe what they are learning is important. The product of deep learning then is
transferable knowledge and skills, and an understanding of how, why, and when to apply this
knowledge to answer questions and solve new problems.
The table on the next page shows the four interconnected dimensions that are associated with our
definition of deep learning. They have collectively become the focus of a system-wide effort to
promote and create deep learning in our schools.

Dimensions of Deep Learning in CFSD
DEEP LEARNING IN THE CATALINA FOOTHILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
ACADEMIC DEEP LEARNING LEARNING HOW TO ACADEMIC

SKILLS PROFICIENCIES LEARN SKILLS MINDSETS
Mastery of Rigorous Application of Learning How to Developing

Academic Content Deep Learning Learn Academic Mindsets
Proficiencies
Actively Participate in Self-regulation and Belonging
(5c + s = dlp)
Learning Ownership of Learning: I belong in this learning
Citizenship community.
Appropriate Level of Planning & Goal-setting
Challenge Creativity and Innovation Growth
Self-instruction
Structure of Knowledge Critical Thinking and My ability and
Help-seeking
Problem Solving competence grow with
Foundational & Technical
Collaborating my effort.
Knowledge and Skills Communication
Progress monitoring Self-efficacy
Acquire, Apply, and Collaboration
Transfer Knowledge and Reflection I can succeed.
Systems Thinking
Skills
Learning Techniques: Relevance
Time Management This work has value and
Study Skills purpose for me.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS THAT TRANSFER TO COLLEGE, CAREERS, AND CIVIC LIFE
TRANSFER
A definition of deep learning is not complete without the element of transfer. When students go out
into the world and encounter new experiences, they will need to draw on previous learning to solve
new problems and challenges.
Transfer is the ability to apply or extend what one has learned in one context to new contexts. In some
sense, the whole point of school learning is to be able to transfer what is learned to a wide variety of
contexts outside of school. Yet the ability to transfer knowledge and skills is not a given. Quite often,
information learned in a specific way, or in a particular context, does not transfer to another context.
For example, students may memorize vocabulary words for a quiz, but they cannot use the words in
their writing. Students may learn how to solve percentage problems at the end of a percentages unit,

but they do not know how to apply percentages when they are confronted with a different kind of
problem outside of school. Learning that is not applied or put into practice reduces the likelihood of
later transfer. Real life application is almost always much more complex than decontextualized
instruction or rote learning of discrete skills.
If transfer is the primary goal of instruction then learning needs to be organized around the kinds of
authentic problems and projects that are most often encountered in nonschool settings. Students need
time to understand the meaning of new ideas, to draw connections to other ideas, to apply what they
are learning to real tasks, to determine patterns of relationships, and to practice new skills.
“Active” learning in which students are asked to use ideas by writing and talking about them, apply
what they have learned to more complex problems, and construct projects that require the integration
of many ideas has been found to promote deep learning and stronger transfer. We are committed to
helping our students actively put knowledge and skills into practice in new and challenging situations.
D E E P L E A R N IN G P R O F IC IE N C IE S (D L P s )
Our students’ preparation continues to require an expanding skill set if they are to flourish in a
constantly changing world as lifelong, creative, connected, and collaborative problem solvers. CFSD
reframed the previous 21st century skills and titled them “deep learning proficiencies” (DLPs). There
are 5Cs + systems thinking (5c + s = dlp). The CFSD deep learning proficiencies are as follows:
• Citizenship
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Creativity and Innovation
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Systems Thinking
CFSD developed a set of rubrics (K-2, 3-5, 6-8,

and 9-12) for each DLP. Specific performance
areas and indicators are used for teaching and
measuring skill development. The rubrics
provide a common vocabulary and illustrate a
continuum of performance. By design, the
rubrics have not been aligned to any specific
subject area. They are intended to be contextualized within the academic content areas based on the
selected performance area(s) and indicator(s) that will be taught and assessed. In practice, this means
that not every performance area and indicator in each of the rubrics will be necessary in every lesson,
unit, or assessment.
The inclusion of the DLPs in the current strategic plan reaffirms the district’s commitment to 21st
century skill-building for all students. One significant change to the skill-building focus is the addition
of citizenship. The performance areas for citizenship are cultural literacy, global systems and
perspectives, and civic literacy and engagement. Our expectations for ongoing development of these
skills are clearly defined in the CFSD rubrics for each DLP (see Resources for Deep Learning on the CFSD
website). We intend to measure our students’ growth in all of these skills.

C O L L E G E A N D C A R E E R R E A D IN E S S
One of the objectives of our Envision21 – Deep Learning strategic plan states that we will prepare our
students for college, careers, and civic life. We aim to educate our students so they are able to
transfer their knowledge and skills to their lives after high school graduation. This preparation begins
the moment they enter our schools.
Dr. David Conley at the University of Oregon is the most prolific researcher of college and career
readiness. After 18 years of study and research, he defines a college- and career-ready student as one
who can qualify for and succeed in entry-level, credit-bearing college courses leading to a
baccalaureate or certification, or career pathway-oriented training programs, without the need for
remedial coursework.
Not every student requires the same proficiency in all areas to be college and career ready. Conley
points out that a student’s interests and aspirations after high school influence the precise knowledge
and skills necessary to be ready for postsecondary studies. Therefore, in CFSD we design an educational
program that equips all students with sufficient knowledge and skills in four areas.
Dr. Conley refers to these four areas as the four “keys” – key cognitive strategies, key content
knowledge, key learning skills and techniques, and key transition knowledge and skills. Students are
ready to the degree to which they have mastered all four.
1. Key Cognitive Strategies describe the ways of thinking that are necessary for college-level
work. Conley includes formulating hypotheses and developing problem-solving strategies,
identifying sources and collecting information, analyzing and evaluating findings or conflicting
viewpoints, organizing and constructing work products in a variety of formats, and monitoring
and confirming the precision and accuracy of all work produced.
2. Key Content Knowledge refers to key foundational content and big ideas from core subjects
that students must know well, and an understanding of the structure of knowledge in these
subject areas, which enables students to gain insight into and retain what they are learning.
The technical knowledge and skills associated with career aspirations are key, as are students’
explanations of why they succeed or fail in mastering this knowledge.
3. Key Learning Skills and Techniques consists of two broad categories: student ownership of
learning, which includes goal setting, persistence, help seeking, and self-efficacy; and specific
learning techniques such as time management, study skills, strategic reading, memorization
techniques, collaborative learning, and self-monitoring.
4. Key Transition Knowledge and Skills, or “college-knowledge,” encompasses specific knowledge

necessary to select an appropriate college, to apply and be admitted, to obtain financial aid,
to be focused on an appropriate career or major upon admission, to understand college-level
norms and expectations, and to be a self-advocate within the institutional framework of
colleges and postsecondary programs.
Being college-ready and career-ready are similar. As such, it serves little useful purpose to separate
students into two distinct groups in high school (one bound for college, the other for work). More and
more jobs require some kind of postsecondary training. All students aspire to enter the workforce
eventually and, to do so, all them will need a set of similar foundational thinking skills, content
knowledge, and learning strategies if they are to succeed in their careers and be productive members
of society. In CFSD we are committed to doing our part to make this happen.

A c a d e m ic M in d s e t s
The research evidence suggests that one of the best levers for increasing students’ perseverance and
improving their academic behaviors is by supporting the development of academic mindsets. Academic
mindsets are students’ beliefs about themselves in relation to school and learning. It has been shown
that students with positive academic mindsets work harder, engage in more productive academic
behaviors, and persevere to overcome obstacles to success. The University of Chicago Consortium on
Chicago School Research released a pivotal report in 2012 that shows academic mindsets are a better
predictor of student success than any other determining factor.
One of our goals is to help our students understand how they can positively influence their own
learning. We plan to intentionally develop academic mindsets so that our students can set and achieve
challenging goals. CFSD is focusing on four mindsets:
• Belonging: I belong in this community.
• Growth: My ability and competence grow with my
effort.
• Self-efficacy: I can succeed.
• Relevance: This work has value and purpose for me.
Belonging refers to students’ sense of connectedness to peers

and adults in their classes and school. Students with a strong
sense of belonging see themselves as members of not only a
social community, but also an intellectual community. This is a
strong motivator and helps students interpret setbacks as a
natural part of the learning process.
Students with a growth mindset believe that they can change

their abilities and competence with effort. They see effort as what makes people smart, persist in the
face of setbacks, and are motivated to focus on continued growth. The growth mindset is the most
powerful lever to improve learning because it is the driver of student behavior.
Related to the growth mindset is self-efficacy – the belief that one can succeed. Students must believe
they are likely to achieve their goals if they are to sustain the hard work of learning something
challenging. If students need help or resources, they must see a path they can take in order to obtain
them. The stronger their growth mindset, the more students will seek ways to overcome adversities
and search for alternate strategies to achieve their goals.
When students find academic work to be relevant to their lives, interests, and concerns, they are much
more likely to engage in their learning in a sustained way and to perform well. It takes more energy to
focus attention on a task that does not have direct value to the student.
In summary, when students feel a sense of belonging in a classroom and school community, believe
that their efforts will increase their ability and competence, believe that success is possible and within
their reach, and see work as interesting or relevant to their lives, they are much more likely to persist
at academic tasks and to demonstrate the learning behaviors that lead to school success.

L e a r n in g H o w t o L e a r n
The sixth and final key concept of the Envision21 – Deep Learning strategic plan is “learning how to
learn.” We define learning how to learn as a skill-set that students need to own and manage their
learning. David Conley (2014) refers to these skills as key learning skills and techniques. He argues,
“No single factor may be more important to student success than the degree to which students take
ownership of their learning and are allowed to do so” (p. 73).
When students have acquired these skills and techniques, they are able to monitor and direct their
learning. They set learning goals and keep track of their progress; they know and apply a range of
strategies and study skills (e.g., time management, note taking, strategic reading, technological
proficiency); they reflect on their learning experiences and are aware of their strengths and
weaknesses; they seek out new learning; they use failures and/or setbacks as opportunities for
feedback; they care about the quality of their work; and they continue to seek new ways to learn
challenging material (Conley, 2014; Hewlett Foundation, 2013).
While mastery of content knowledge and proficiency with complex thinking skills are certainly
important, students must be able to employ a range of skills and techniques that are essential to the
learning process and the transition to postsecondary pathways. Over the long term, these skills end up
being just as important as content knowledge and thinking strategies. It is important that our students
learn to master these skills to succeed in their academic courses and to also continue to learn once
they have concluded their formal education. To learn something deeply, students need to internalize it
and make it their own. To be able to use that learning and influence issues that matter to them,
students need to participate substantively in the learning process. These key learning skills and
techniques prepare our students to be lifelong learners.
District and School Improvement Plans

The improvement plan for the district and each CFSD school are in the next section of this document. The
school improvement plans (SIPs) were created within the context of the district’s strategic plan. The principal
and his/her school-based leadership team facilitated the development of a research-based school improvement
plan with six achievable improvement goals, specific action plans tied to an annual timeline, and a monitoring
component to gauge progress during the school year.

RESOURCES
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Conley, D. (2012). A complete definition of college and career readiness. Eugene, OR: Educational Policy
Improvement Center.
Conley, D. (2007). Redefining college readiness. Eugene, OR: Educational Policy Improvement Center.
Dweck, C.S., Walton, G.M., & Cohen, Geoffrey. (2014). Academic tenacity. Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
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Partnership for 21st Century Skills. Reimagining citizenship for the 21st century: A call to action for
policymakers and educators. Washington, DC: Author. Retrieved from P21.org.
Partnership for 21st Century Skills. Teacher guide K-12 global competence grade-level indicators. Washington,
DC: Author. Retrieved from P21.org.
Partnership for 21st Century Skills. (2010). 21st century readiness for every student: A policymaker’s guide.
Washington, DC: Author. Retrieved from P21.org.
Schwartz, K. (March 2014). What’s your learning disposition? How to foster students’ mindsets. Retrieved from
blogs.kqed.org.
The Alliance for Excellent Education. (May 2011). A time for deeper learning: Preparing students for a
changing world. Retrieved from http://deeperlearning4all.org

Resources (Continued)
The Hewlett Foundation (April 2013). Deeper learning competencies. Retrieved from
http://www.hewlett.org/uploads/documents/Deeper_Learning_Defined__April_2013.pdf.
Toshalis, E. & Nakkula, M. (2012). Motivation, engagement, and student voice. Boston, MA: Jobs for the
Future.
Vander Ark, T. & Schneider, C. Deeper learning for every student every day. William and Flora Hewlett
Foundation.
Wagner, T. ( 2012). Creating innovators: The making of young people who will change the world. New York:
Scribner.
Websites:
Alliance for Excellent Education Deeper Learning Website (www.deeperlearning4all.org/)
EdLeader21 (http://www.edleader21.com)
Educational Policy Improvement Center (EPIC) (epiconline.org)
P21 - Partnership for 21st Century Learning (http://www.p21.org)
Mindset Works (mindsetworks.com)
The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation - Deeper Learning (www.hewlett.org/deeperlearning)
UnBoxed – Mindsets and Student Agency (High Tech High’s Graduate School of Education magazine)
(http://www.hightechhigh.org/unboxed/issue10/mindsets_and_student_agency_contributors/)
Photo Credit:
Children Arms Crossed (Cover Page). Purchased at shutterstock.com, image # 95295784

CATALINA FOOTHILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
st
A 21 Century Learning Community S T R A T E G I C P L A N 2014-2020

2017-2018 GOALS AND STRATEGIES
CFSD DEEP LEARNING GOALS GOAL #1
Reduce the gap between current and desired student academic achievement.
Ø Increase the achievement of literacy and numeracy in all academic content areas by addressing students’ diverse needs and
abilities.
Ø Develop knowledge and skills that transfer to college, careers, and civic life.
Strategy: Provide appropriate interventions and extended learning services for students who are most at-risk of achieving
LITERACY
the reading standards, using timely and accurate data to determine those interventions.
Strategy: Provide targeted professional development in reading and writing literacy to build teacher capacity, and support
increased literacy achievement at grades K-5 and in the content areas at grades 6-12.
Strategy: Monitor the implementation of the revised K-5 math diagnostic assessments and the placement process for
NUMERACY
identifying students for extended math opportunities.

Strategy: Provide professional development and curriculum support for middle school math teachers at grades 6-8 and
grade 5 extended math teachers to support students in developing the critical thinking, literacy, and mathematics
dispositions and skills necessary for success in subsequent class/course offerings.
Strategy: Complete the CFSD College and Career Readiness profile of readiness indicators and measures, and
TRANSFER
communicate it to parents and the community.

Strategy: Facilitate a comprehensive study of the K-12 counseling program using the national model as a framework.
Strategy: Create and implement a plan to more effectively communicate CTE and JTED options to students and parents
at the middle and high school so they are more informed about potential courses and program decisions.
Raise the engagement of students so they are highly motivated to set and achieve increasingly challenging goals for
deep learning.
Ø Develop positive academic mindsets so students are more confident learners who feel they belong to the CFSD
academic community, succeed in their learning, grow their competence with effort, and find value in their work.
Ø Develop the deep learning proficiencies of citizenship, critical thinking and problem solving, creativity and innovation,
communication, collaboration, and systems thinking.
Strategy: Expand professional learning opportunities and resources to support the development of the academic
MINDSETS
mindsets (belonging, growth, self-efficacy, and relevance).
Strategy: Develop teachers’ and administrators’ knowledge and skills in the use of systems thinking concepts and tools.
Strategy: Build knowledge and skills in the design of an understanding-based curriculum and develop the transfer goals for
each of the deep learning proficiencies (DLPs).
DLPs
Strategy: Develop CFSD’s K-5 robotics units into a model curriculum for long-term sustainability and replicability.
Strategy: Build teacher capacity in project based learning to develop students’ creative problem solving (e.g., creativity
and innovation, critical thinking and problem solving) and collaboration skills.
2017-2018; CFSD (District)

Partner with families and community to achieve our strategic priorities.

Ø Engage in regular meaningful communication about student learning.
Ø Foster strong relationships with and among CFSD alumni.
Strategy: Improve regular, two-way communication with families to provide multiple opportunities to become more
COMMUNICATION
engaged in academic programs and students’ learning.

Strategy: Revise the CFSD marketing plan to increase the right connotations around CFSD that highlight strengths, tell
success stories, and provide easy access to information.
Strategy: Provide meaningful leadership and volunteer opportunities for alumni.
Strategy: Grow the number of mentors for alumni and help them build their professional networks.
2017-2018; CFSD (District)

S T R A T E G I C P L A N 2014-2020
CATALINA FOOTHILLS HIGH SCHOOL: 2017-2018 SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
abilities.
CATALINA FOOTHILLS HIGH SCHOOL – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #1
Ø By spring of 2018, the passing rate for each cohort in math classes will be 85% or higher for each semester, as
measured by the end of semester course grades, reported in TeacherVUE. The increases will be as follows:
Cohort Percentage of Goal for Semester 1 Percentage of Goal for Semester 2

students who passed 2016-2017 students who passed 2016-2017
previous course previous course
S1 2016-2017 S2 2015-2016
Algebra 1 68%* 85% 71%* 85%
NUMERACY
Geometry 88% 85% 81% 85%

Algebra 2 83% 85% 78% 85%
Precalculus 79% 85% 77% 85%
Stats/Discrete 79% 85% 77% 85%
Applications of 79% 85% 77% 85%
Mathematics
*Percentage of students who scored higher than 2.5 in their 8th grade math course
Strategy: Build teacher capacity to implement a repertoire of effective instructional strategies and interventions to
assist all students in achieving the mathematics standards. Use timely and accurate data sources to provide targeted
interventions and extended learning opportunities. Continue utilizing identified successful strategies from 2016-2017
Strategic Plan.
Ø Student ability to demonstrate proficiency in course content in Science, Social Studies, World Languages, and English
courses will increase from __%, as evidenced by start-of-course diagnostic assessments, to __%, as measured by
TRANSFER
course assessments, by Spring 2018 [Multiple assessments and measures will be used during the school year to
determine growth in overall student achievement.]
Strategy: Build capacity of teachers to teach identified thinking skills and disciplinary content in Social Studies, Science,
World Languages, and English. Continue utilizing identified successful strategies from 2016-17 Strategic Plan.
Raise the engagement of students so they are highly motivated to set and achieve increasingly challenging goals for deep
learning.
2017-2018; CFHS School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

CATALINA FOOTHILLS HIGH SCHOOL – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #2
Ø By the end of the course, all Kinetic Wellness students at a Novice or Basic level will increase by one academic
mindset level; students at the Proficient or Advanced level will maintain or increase their academic mindset level as
measured by a pre- and post-survey. Students will also increase their identified content area Novice or Basic academic
level by at least one level (to Basic, Proficient, or Advanced).
MINDSETS
Strategy: Implement the strategies below to increase the degree to which students have and exhibit academic mindsets.
• Promote use of planner, more time per test as needed, flexibility on late and incomplete work
• Checks for understanding
• Providing feedback and multiple opportunities for success
• Explaining rubric and making it accessible.
Ø Student demonstration of the Deep Learning Proficiencies (DLPs) will increase, on average, from ___ to ___ as
measured by grades reported by departments (see below).
DEEP LEARNING PROFICIENCIES (DLPs)
Goals for DLPs / Departments
Current DLP Goal Average End-

DLP / Department
Average Score Average of-Year Score
Communication: Special Ed 91 95
Communication: World Languages 3.0 3.3
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Math 76 80
Systems Thinking: Science 72 76
Creativity and Innovation: Fine Arts 92 96
Creativity and Innovation: English 3.0 3.3
Citizenship: Social Studies 2.9 3.2
Strategy: Build teacher capacity in common assessment and scoring practices of the Deep Learning Proficiencies in all
content areas. Continue utilizing identified successful strategies from 2016-17 Strategic Plan.

CATALINA FOOTHILLS HIGH SCHOOL – DEEP LEARNING GOAL & STRATEGY GOAL #3
Ø The number of families who report that they have sufficient and timely information from teachers to support their
COMMUNICATION
child’s learning will increase from 78.4% to 91.5%*, as measured by a survey in spring of 2018.
*The goal reflects the movement of 13.1% of parents who responded with a 2 to a 3 or higher on the survey question
regarding timeliness.
Strategy: Increase the effective use of Synergy’s TeacherVUE/StudentVUE to communicate to parents about student
progress.
2017-2018; CFHS School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

S T R A T E G I C P L A N 2014-2020
E S P E R E R O C A N Y O N M ID D L E S C H O O L : 2 0 1 7 -2 0 1 8 S C H O O L IM P R O V E M E N T P L A N
abilities.
Ø Develop knowledge and skills that transfer to college, careers and civic life.
ESPERERO CANYON MIDDLE SCHOOL – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #1
Ø The percentage of students in grades 6-8 who will score proficient or higher (score 3.0 and above) in the assessed
topics (Text Types and Purposes; Production and Distribution of Writing; and Conventions) of the District Common
Writing Assessment (DCA) will increase from ___% to ___% (see below) as measured by a DCA pre-assessment
administered in September 2017 and a post-assessment administered in April 2018 as follows:
Grade 6: From __% to __% in Text Types and Purposes
From __% to __% in Production and Distribution of Writing
LITERACY
From __% to __% in Conventions

From __% to __% in Production and Distribution of Writing
From __% to __% in Production and Distribution of Language
Strategy: Increase capacity in grades 6-8 teachers’ writing strategies and skills to provide a rigorous, aligned, and
coherent system of writing instruction.
Ø By Spring 2018, the percentage of students who are scoring below mastery in the mathematics scoring categories for
grades 6, 7, and 8 will decrease by at least 5% (see below) as measured by the spring 2018 AzMERIT Math Assessment.
Grade 6:
From 12% to 7% in Ratio and Proportional Relationships
From 23% to 18% in Number System
From 24% to 19% in Expressions and Equations
From 22% to 17% in Geometry, Statistics, and Probability
Grade 7:
From 42% to 37% in Ratio and Proportional Relationships
NUMERACY
From 37% to 32% in Number System

From 26% to 21% in Geometry, Statistics, and Probability
Grade 8:
From 34% to 29% in Functions
From 24% to 19% in Geometry
From 39% to 34% in Statistics, Probability, and Number System
Strategy: Continue to build teacher capacity in the use of the Performance Level Descriptors (PLDs) to identify the
target performance levels for individuals or groups of students, use them as a tool for planning and instruction, and for
monitoring student growth along the proficiency continuum as described by the PLDs.
2017-2018; ECMS School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

Ø By Spring 2018, grades 6-8 students will increase their perceived level of agreement from ___% to ___% (see below)
on selected behaviors and characteristics associated with motivated, goal-directed students who reflect on their
academic performance, as measured by the Quaglia Survey, administered in October 2017 and May 2018.
From 38% to 43% Teachers make school and exciting place to learn (#29)
TRANSFER
From 41% to 45% My classes help me understand what is happening in my everyday life (#38)
From 70% to 85% I learn new things that are interesting to me at school (#41)
From 65% to 70% What I learn in school will benefit my future (#42)
From 75% to 80% I think it is important to set high goals (#64)
From 59% to 64% School is preparing me well for my future (#66).
Strategy: Increase classroom opportunities to engage students in self-reflection/self-assessment experiences so that
students can monitor and improve their learning results.
Raise the engagement of students so they are highly motivated to set and achieve increasingly challenging goals for deep
learning.
Ø Develop positive academic mindsets so students are more confident learners who feel they belong to the CFSD academic
community, succeed in their learning, grow their competence with effort, and find value in their work.
ESPERERO CANYON MIDDLE SCHOOL – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #2
Ø By May 2018, the overall percentage of students in grades 6, 7, and 8 who perceive that they belong to the ECMS
community will increase, on average, from ____% to ____% (see below) as measured by the Quaglia Student Voice
Survey, administered in October 2017 and May 2018.
By survey item (factors of belonging) for each grade level:
1. From 65% to 70% (School is a welcoming and friendly place.)
2. From 65% to 70% (I feel accepted for who I am at school.)
MINDSETS
3. From 46% to 51%(Teachers make an effort to know me.)

4. From 16% to 21% (I have difficulty fitting in school.)
5. From 43% to 48% (Teachers care about my problems and feelings.)
6. From 51% to 56% (I am proud of my school.)
7. From 37% to 40% (I am a valued member of my school community.)
8. From 40% to 45% (I think bullying is a problem at my school.)
Strategy: Build teacher capacity in how to build and support a sense of belonging for students in the classroom and at
school.
Ø The percentage of students in grades 6, 7, and 8 who score proficient (score 3.0) in selected performance areas and
categories of the deep learning proficiency (DLP) of Citizenship will increase from __% to __% (see below), as
measured by grades reported out in TeacherVue during first and second semester of the 2017-2018 school year in
World Languages, Social Studies and Fine Arts.
DLPs
Grade 6 From 83% to 88% (DLP: Citizenship)

Strategy: Build teacher and student knowledge and understanding of the performance areas and their indicators of the
deep learning proficiency (DLP), Creativity and Innovation.

ESPERERO CANYON MIDDLE SCHOOL – DEEP LEARNING GOAL & STRATEGIES GOAL #3

Ø By Spring 2018, the percentage of parents who report that communication from teachers at ECMS about students’
academic progress will increase from __% to __% (see below), as measured by four (4) quarterly surveys administered
every 9 weeks during the 2017 – 2018 school year.
COMMUNICATION
1. From 65% to 70%: My child’s teachers’ websites are easy to navigate.

2. From 71% to 76%: My child's teachers update their on-line grade books on a regular basis (every two weeks) to
reflect an accurate picture of my child's current academic performance.
3. From 78% to 82%: When there have been concerns about my child’s academic performance, his/her teachers
communicate with me by email or by telephone.
4. From 74% to 79%: Teachers and other staff respond to my concerns and request for information in a timely
manner.
Strategy: Increase the frequency and quality of interactions between home and school to improve student learning and
reduce the overall failure rate.

S T R A T E G I C P L A N 2014-2020
ORANGE GROVE MIDDLE SCHOOL: 2017-2018 SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
abilities.
ORANGE GROVE MIDDLE SCHOOL – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #1
Ø By Spring 2018, 85% of students enrolled in Math 6 - 8 courses will show growth from the pre- to post-assessment of
discrete skills in a targeted domain* as follows:
• Students scoring a 1.0 - 1.5 on the pretest will increase scores by 1.0 point or more
• Students scoring a 2.0 - 2.5 on the pretest will increase scores by 0.5 point or more
NUMERACY
• Students scoring a 3.0 on the pretest will maintain or increase scores

*Note: The targeted domain for 6th grade is Number and Operations – Fractions, and the targeted domain for 7th and 8th
grade is Expressions & Equations.
Strategy: Select, create, and implement effective instructional interventions to assist all students in achieving math
standards in targeted domains for each grade level, and use timely and accurate data sources to identify students for
targeted interventions.
Ø 100% of all students in classes of teachers engaged in specific Project Based Learning work will score a 2.5 or above,
TRANSFER
and 80% will score a 3.0 or above in the Deep Learning Proficiency of Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving (in the
strand “Problem Solving / Solution Finding), as measured by content-specific assessments by May 1, 2018.
Strategy: Develop, refine, and pose challenging problems or questions in all units of study for students in all sections of
one course for teachers in the Project Based Learning cohort.
deep learning.
Ø Develop the deep learning proficiencies of citizenship, critical thinking and problem solving, creativity and
innovation, communication, collaboration, and systems thinking.
ORANGE GROVE MIDDLE SCHOOL – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #2
Ø The percentage of 6th grade students who feel they belong to the OGMS community will increase from 59% (pre-test)
MINDSETS
to 69% (post-test), as indicated by their responses on a survey of mindsets and social belonging.
Strategy: Select and implement strategies to develop students’ sense of belonging to the OGMS community.
Ø By the end of the By the end of the 2017-2018 school year, 100% of the students in identified courses of teachers
engaged in a deep learning proficiency (DLP) SIP focus, will score at a 2.5 or higher on the rubrics for Systems
DLPs
Thinking, Collaboration, or Critical Thinking and Problem Solving as measured by a post-assessment created by
participating teachers.
2017-2018; OGMS School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

Strategy: Develop students’ skills in the three DLPs of Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Collaboration, and
Systems Thinking by building teacher capacity to instruct and assess in these skill areas.

ORANGE GROVE MIDDLE SCHOOL – DEEP LEARNING GOAL & STRATEGIES GOAL #3
Ø Families will increase in their ability to identify and describe upcoming assignments, assessments, and due dates by using
COMMUNICATION
the StudentVUE / ParentVUE Calendar function.

Strategy: Teachers will consistently create assignments within Synergy when they are assigned to students so that
students and families can view all upcoming assignments in Synergy’s StudentVUE / ParentVUE Calendar.
2017-2018; OGMS School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

S T R A T E G I C P L A N 2014-2020
CANYON VIEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: 2017-2018 SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
abilities.
CANYON VIEW ELEMENTARY – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #1
Ø The percentage of students in grades K-5 who reach proficiency in Writing Text Types and Purposes will increase
from __% to __% (see below), as measured by the District Common Writing assessments administered in the fall and
spring of the 2017-2018 school year.
LITERACY
First Grade: From 3% to 64% Fourth Grade: From 31% to 65%

Second Grade: From 17% to 81% Fifth Grade: From 5% to 55%
Third Grade: From 22% to 67%
Strategy: Develop the capacity of grades K-5 teachers in effective teaching of writing with a focus on planning and
drafting.
Ø Students will demonstrate mastery of the disciplinary knowledge and skills needed to conduct inquiry and solve real-
TRANSFER
world problems through problem- and/or project-based learning, as measured by project scoring rubrics during the
2017-2018 school year.
Strategy: Create and implement Project Based Learning units at grades K-5.
deep learning.
CANYON VIEW ELEMENTARY – DEEP LEARNING GOAL & STRATEGIES GOAL #2
Ø The percentage of grades K-5 students who report that their work has value and meaning to them will increase, on
average, from ___% to ___%, as measured by the Canyon View Relevance Mindset Survey from fall 2017 to spring
2018.
Kindergarten: From 68% to 78%
MINDSETS
First Grade: From 71% to 81%

Second Grade: From 72% to 82%
Fourth Grade: From 68% to 78%
Fifth Grade: From 47% to 57%
Strategy: Deepen students’ understanding of the attributes/characteristics of a growth mindset by explicitly teaching
and modeling components of a growth mindset with an emphasis on goal setting and self-reflection in grades 3-5.
2017-2018; CV School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

Ø Canyon View students will demonstrate knowledge and skills on selected deep learning proficiencies (DLPs) through
rigorous and authentic learning opportunities, and will receive detailed and specific assessment feedback on their
DLPs
progress.
Strategy: Teachers will build their knowledge and understanding of how the performance areas and indicators in the
DLPs are demonstrated and measured in the various content areas.

CANYON VIEW ELEMENTARY – DEEP LEARNING GOAL & STRATEGIES GOAL #3
Ø Implement regular, two-way communication with families that provides multiple opportunities to become more
COMMUNICATION
engaged in academic programs and their students’ learning.

Strategy: Maximize the use of ParentVUE to increase engagement with families about student learning.
2017-2018; CV School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

S T R A T E G I C P L A N 2014-2020
MANZANITA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: 2017-2018 SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
abilities.
Ø Develop knowledge and skills that transfer to college, careers and civic life.
MANZANITA ELEMENTARY – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #1
Ø The average score in Number and Operations – Fractions on the EOY Math Assessment will increase from ___% to
___% (see below), as measured by the End-of-Year Math Assessment administered in Spring of 2018.
Grade 3 will increase from 2.53 to 3.0.

NUMERACY
Ø The percentage of students in Grades 4-5 (cohorts of students) who scored below mastery in the scoring category
“Number and Operations - Fractions” in 2017, will decrease by 5% from __% to __% (see below), as measured by
the AzMERIT in the spring of 2018.
From 24% at Grade 3 in 2017 to 19% in Grade 4 in 2018
From 19% in Grade 4 in 2017 to 14% in Grade 5 in 2018
Strategy: Build the capacity of K-2 teachers to effectively implement RTI in order to improve foundational reading
skills.
TRANSFER
world problems through Project Based Learning, as measured by designated assessments and project scoring rubrics,
according to the timeline of the project.
Strategy: Build the capacity of teachers to implement the eight (8) essential elements of project based learning in order
to engage students in a deeper level of learning.
deep learning.
Ø The percentage of students in Grade 5 who perceive they are proficient in utilizing self-regulation skills will increase
from 60% to 86% as measured by questions adapted from the Fast Track Project Child Behavior Questionnaire,
MINDSETS
administered in Spring 2018.

Ø Grade 5 students will increase achievement in Self-Regulation and Reflection (on the CFSD Critical Thinking and
Problem Solving rubric), as measured by two teacher-determined challenges/assessments administered during the
2017-2018 school year, as follows:
2017-2018; MZ School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

Students with a beginning score of 1.0 or 1.5 will increase on the rubric scale by 1 point or more.
Students with a beginning score of 2.0 or 2.5 will increase on the rubric scale by 0.5 points or more.
Students with a beginning score of 3.0 or 3.5 will maintain current score or increase by 0.5 points or more.
Strategy: Build the capacity of students to develop and utilize self-regulation skills in academic and social settings.
Ø The percentage of targeted students in grades K-5 who score proficient (3.0) or higher on the effective use of a
Systems Thinking tool on a teacher-designed task will increase from __% to __% (see below), as measured by the
Systems Thinking Change Over Time Rubric.
Kindergarten: From __% to __%
Grade 1: From __% to __%
Ø The percentage of targeted students in grades K-5 who score proficient (3.0) or higher on the effective use of a
DLPs
Systems Thinking tool on a teacher-designed task will increase from __% to __% (see below), as measured by the
Systems Thinking Interdependencies Rubric.
Kindergarten: From __% to __%
Strategy: Build teacher understanding and application of the performance areas and indicators of the deep learning
proficiency, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, in order to increase student performance on district common
mathematics assessments/tasks.

MANZANITA ELEMENTARY – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #3
Ø Implement school-wide strategies for parents and students to regularly communicate about student academic progress.
COMMUNICATION
Strategy: Increase the frequency and quality of interactions between home and school to improve student learning.
2017-2018; MZ School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

S T R A T E G I C P L A N 2014-2020
S U N R IS E D R IV E E L E M E N T A R Y S C H O O L : 2 0 1 7 -2 0 1 8 S C H O O L IM P R O V E M E N T P L A N
abilities.
SUNRISE DRIVE ELEMENTARY – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #1
Ø The percentage of students in grades K-5 who score proficient* or higher in Problem Solving will increase from
___% to ___% (see below), as measured by the End-of-Year (EOY) district common assessments administered in
May 2017 (EOY) and May 2018 (EOY).
Kindergarten: From 75 % to 80 % (*Proficiency = 35/44)
NUMERACY
First Grade: From 80 % to 85 % (*Proficiency = 46/60)

Second Grade: From 76% to 81 % (*Proficiency = 49/62)
Third Grade: From 76 % to 81 % (*Proficiency = 40/69)
Fourth Grade: From 38 % to 43 % (*Proficiency = 63/86)
Fifth Grade: From 38 % to 43 % (*Proficiency = 52/70)
Strategy: Teachers will increase their knowledge of mathematical instruction to effectively plan and implement rigorous
mathematic instruction.
TRANSFER
world problems, as measured by scoring rubrics created for each problem or project, according to the timeline of the
project.
Strategy: Develop and implement K-5 authentic learning experiences that engage students in a deeper level of learning.
deep learning.
Ø The percentage of students at grades 3-5 who demonstrate knowledge and skills in sense of belonging will increase on
average from ___% to ___% (see below) as measured by the “Sunrise Drive Belonging to an Academic Community
MINDSETS
Survey,” administered in fall 2017 and spring 2018.

2017-2018; SD School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

Strategy: Deepen students’ understanding of the attributes/characteristics of belonging to an academic community by
explicitly teaching and modeling various components of the “Spirit of Sunrise,” to include being safe, responsible, kind
and respectful.
Ø The percentage of students who score proficient or higher in the deep learning proficiency (DLP) of Critical Thinking
and Problem Solving on the district’s common math performance-based assessments (DCAs) will increase from __% to
__% (see below), as measured by the DCA administered in the third trimester of May 2017 and the end of the last
trimester in May 2018.
DLPs

Strategy: Deepen student knowledge and understanding of the performance areas and indicators of the deep learning
proficiency (DLP) of Critical Thinking and Problem Solving.

Ø Implement regular, two-way communication that provides multiple opportunities for families to become more engaged
COMMUNICATION
in academic programs and their students’ learning.
Strategy: Increase the frequency and quality of home/school communication through face-to-face interactions and two-
way digital communication tools with a focus on student learning and success.
2017-2018; SD School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

S T R A T E G I C P L A N 2014-2020
VENTANA VISTA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: 2017-2018 SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
abilities.
VENTANA VISTA ELEMENTARY – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #1
Ø The percentage of students in grades K-5 who score proficient* or higher will increase from __ % to __ % (see
below), as measured by the End-of-Year (EOY) administered in May 2017 and May 2018.
Kindergarten: From 34 % to 39 % (*Proficiency = 35/44)
NUMERACY
First Grade: From 61% to 66% (*Proficiency = 46/60)

Second Grade: From 55% to 60% (*Proficiency = 49/62)
Third Grade: From 24 % to 30 % (*Proficiency = 40/69)
Fourth Grade: From 7% to 12% (*Proficiency = 63/86)
Fifth Grade: From 15 % to 20 % (*Proficiency = 52/70)
Strategy: Build teacher capacity in using a constructivist approach to teaching mathematics to develop conceptual
understanding of mathematics for students.
Ø The percentage of students who perceive that they belong to the Ventana Vista community will increase from ___%
(all students in grades 3 and 4, 2017) to___% (all students in grades 4 and 5, 2018) as measured by the Quaglia
Student Voice Survey, administered in May 2017 and May 2018.
By Grade Level (Overall)
From 63% (Third Grade, 2017) to 68%% (Fourth Grade, 2018)
From 56% (Fourth Grade, 2017) to 61% (Fifth Grade, 2018)
Ø The percentage of students who establish relationships with teachers that encourage and/or inspires students to
make a positive change in their attitude and lifestyle (Heroes) will increase from ___% (all students in grades 3 and 4,
2017) to___% (all students in grades 4 and 5, 2018) as measured by the Quaglia Student Voice Survey, administered
in May 2017 and May 2018.
TRANSFER
From 58% (Third Grade, 2017) to 63% (Fourth Grade, 2018)

Ø The percentage of students who develop a strong desire to learn and an eagerness to satisfy the mind with new
discoveries (Curiosity and Creativity) will increase from ___% (all students in grades 3 and 4, 2017) to___% (all
students in grades 4 and 5, 2018) as measured by the Quaglia Student Voice Survey, administered in May 2017 and
May 2018.
From 63% (Third Grade, 2017) to 68% (Fourth Grade, 2018)
Grade 3
1. From 74.5% to 79.5% (I like my school.)
2. From 52.7% to 57.7% (Other students like me.)
3. From 52.7% to 57.7% (I feel important in my classroom.)
4. From 35.2% to 40.2% (Other students are kind to me.)
2017-2018; VV School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

5. From 69.1% to 74.1% (I think bullying is a problem at my school.)
Grade 4
1. From 61.8% to 66.8% (I like my school.)
2. From 46.7% to 51.7% (Other students like me.)
3. From 28.9% to 33.9% (I feel important in my classroom.)
4. From 34.7% to 39.7% (Other students are kind to me.)
5. From 46.6% to 51.6% (I think bullying is a problem at my school.)
Survey Results for the Category of Heroes

Grade 3
1. From 49.1% to 54.1% (Students respect teachers.)
2. From 49.1% to 54.1% (Students help each other at my school.)
3. From 87.3% to 92.3% (My teacher cares about me.)
4. From 50.9% to 55.9% (If I am upset I can tell my teacher why.)
5. From 64.8% to 69.8% (Teachers care if I am absent from school.)
6. From 47.2% to 52.3% (If I have a problem I have an adult at school I can talk to.)
7. From 72.7% to 77.7% (Teachers respect students.)
8. From 46.3 % to 51.3% (Students respect each other.)
Grade 4
1. From 22.4% to 27.4% (Students respect teachers.)
2. From 25% to 29% (Students help each other at my school.)
3. From 64.5% to 69.5% (My teacher cares about me.)
4. From 26.3% to 71.3% (If I am upset I can tell my teacher why.)
5. From 60.5% to 65.5% (Teachers care if I am absent from school.)
6. From 46.1% to 51.1% (If I have a problem I have an adult at school I can talk to.)
7. From 61.6% to 66.6% (Teachers respect students.)
8. From 15.1 % to 20.1% (Students respect each other.)
Survey Results for the Curiosity and Creativity
Grade 3
1. From 50.9% to 55.9% (I feel comfortable asking questions in class.)
2. From 74.5% to 79.5% (I enjoy working on projects with other students.)
3. From 76.4% to 81.4% (I like to learn new things in my classes.)
4. From 57.4% to 62.4% (My teacher listens to my ideas.)
5. From 61.8% to 66.8% (My teacher knows what I like to do.)
6. From 55.6% to 60.6% (I like what I learned at school.)
Grade 4
1. From 47.4% to 52.4% (I feel comfortable asking questions in class.)
2. From 59.2% to 64.2% (I enjoy working on projects with other students.)
3. From 65.8% to 70.8% (I like to learn new things in my classes.)
4. From 50% to 55% (My teacher listens to my ideas.)
5. From 36.8% to 41.8% (My teacher knows what I like to do.)
6. From 36.8% to 42.8% (I like what I learned at school.)
Strategy: Teachers will create a learning environment that fosters a sense of belonging, provides trusting adults, and
allows for inquisitiveness and a desire to learn.
Raise the engagement of students so they are highly motivated to set and achieve increasingly challenging goals for deep learning.

VENTANA VISTA ELEMENTARY – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #2
Ø By May 2018, the percentage of students in grades 4th and 5th who demonstrates a desire to set goals and reflect as
a learner at Ventana Vista will increase from ____% to____% (see below) as measured by the Quaglia Student Voice
Survey, administered in May 2017 and May 2018. [This goal uses the data from this year's 3rd and 4th graders who
will be 4th and 5th graders next year. The first number is the average score based on specific indicators under the
“Leadership and Responsibility” and “Confidence to Take Action” categories on the May 2017 survey.]
By Grade Level (Line Item Indicators for Self-Reflection):
MINDSETS
Fourth Grade: 61% to 66%

Fifth Grade: 48% to 53%
By Grade Level (Line Item Indicators for Goal Setting):

Fourth Grade: 77% to 82%
Fifth Grade: 58% to 63 %
Strategy: Teachers will deepen students’ understanding of the attributes/characteristics of a growth mindset by
explicitly teaching and modeling various components of a growth mindset, with an emphasis on goal setting and self-
reflection in grades 3-5.
Ø The percentage of students in grades 1-5 who score proficient or higher in the deep learning proficiency of
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving will increase from ___% to ___% (see below), as evidenced by growth in
performance on the District Common Math Assessments, administered during the 2017-2018 school year.
DLPs

Strategy: Build teacher capacity in using a constructivist approach to teaching mathematics to develop critical thinking
and problem solving skills.

VENTANA VISTA ELEMENTARY – DEEP LEARNING GOAL & STRATEGY GOAL #3
Ø Improve regular, two-way technological communication with families to provide multiple opportunities to become
COMMUNICATION
more engaged in academic programs and students’ learning.
Strategy: Increase the frequency and quality of home/school communication through face-to-face interactions and a
variety of digital communication tools with a focus on student learning and success.

S T R A T E G I C P L A N 2014-2020
VALLEY VIEW EARLY LEARNING CENTER: 2017-2018 SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
abilities.
VALLEY VIEW EARLY LEARNING CENTER – DEEP LEARNING GOALS & STRATEGIES GOAL #1
Ø The percentage of students using emergent reading skills will increase from 95% - 97% by Spring 2018, as assessed
by GOLD.
LITERACY
Ø The percentage of students noticing and discriminating rhyme will increase from 85% - 95% by Spring 2018, as
assessed by GOLD.
Ø The percentage of students able to discriminate smaller and smaller units of sound will increase from 92% - 96%, as
assessed by GOLD.
Strategy: Build teachers’ capacity in the teaching and assessment of emergent reading skills (ERS).
Ø The percentage of students scoring below in “exploring and describing spatial relationships and shapes” will decrease
NUMERACY
from 14% to 7%, as measured by the Spring 2017 Gold assessment.
Strategy: Build the capacity of teachers in creating lessons and learning experiences in understanding spatial
relationships and shapes in the context of mathematics.
Ø Increase student achievement from 95% to 97% at “Meets” or “Exceeds” in “Solves Problems” by Spring 2018, as
measured by the GOLD assessment tool.
Ø Increase student achievement in “Exceeds” for “Solves Problems” from 15% - 25% by Spring 2018, as measured by
TRANSFER
the GOLD assessment tool.

Ø Increase student achievement in “Exceeds” for Expressive Language from 28% - 35% by Spring 2018, as measured by
the GOLD assessment tool.
Strategy: Build capacity in the eight (8) essential principles of project based learning and identify what this looks like in
early childhood learning.
deep learning.
2017-2018; VVELC School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

Ø Increase the percentage of students who exhibit behaviors of a growth mindset as measured by indicators
on the Strategies GOLD assessment in Spring 2018.
• Increase the percentage of "solves problems" from 94% to 98%.
MINDSETS
• Increase the percentage of students exceeding the expectations in "solves problems" from 15% - 25%.
• Increase the percentage of students in “engages in conversations” from 93% - 97%.
• Increase the percentage of students in “solving social problems” from 92% - 96%.
Strategy: Increase teacher knowledge and understanding of a growth mindset environment and vocabulary with a
focus on the importance of specific feedback, how effective effort can lead to higher achievement, and teaching
students to embrace mistakes.
Ø Students will be able to increase their proficiency in conversational and communication strategies from 92% - 97%, as
assessed by GOLD in Spring 2018.
Ø Students will be able to increase their proficiency in “Making Friends” from 94% - 97% as assessed by GOLD in Spring
DLPs
2018.
Strategy: Build teacher and student knowledge of the habits of a system thinker by using systems thinking tools to
develop positive relationships and conversational and communication skills.

Ø Implement regular, two-way communication with families to increase the percentage of families who:
COMMUNICATION
• interact with their teachers on a weekly basis from 77% to 85%.

• feel acknowledged about their family circumstances from 79% to 85%.
• are invited to participate in classroom activities (volunteering and parent activities) from 88% to 95%.
• feel informed about Kindergarten transition from 88% to 95%.
Strategy: Increase the frequency and quality of interactions between home and school to improve student learning
and relationships.
2017-2018; VVELC School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

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C A TA L I N A F O O TH I L L S S C H O O L D I ST RI C T

S UPERINTENDENT ’ S M ESSAGE • G OVERNING B OARD

Mary Kamerzell, Ph.D.

Governing Board Contact Administration

We believe in one’s personal capacity to

We encourage critical thinking and

We understand and accept the impact

We help students focus, follow through

We appreciate the unique qualities of

OUR DEEP LEARNING GOALS

The major aim of schooling is to enable students to become the architects of

ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING • Catalina Foothills School District • cfsd16.org 1

STRATEGIC PLAN 2014 – 2020: MOVING BEYOND 21ST CENTURY SKILLS

CFSD’s new strategic plan, Envision21 – Deep Learning 2014-2020, includes a

• Increase the achievement of literacy and numeracy in all

ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING • Catalina Foothills School District • cfsd16.org 2

3) Partner with families and community to achieve our strategic priorities.

• Engage in regular meaningful communication about student learning.

ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING • Catalina Foothills School District • cfsd16.org 3

KEY CONCEPTS OF ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING STRATEGIC PLAN

ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING • Catalina Foothills School District • cfsd16.org 4

Dimensions of Deep Learning in CFSD

DEEP LEARNING IN THE CATALINA FOOTHILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

ACADEMIC DEEP LEARNING LEARNING HOW TO ACADEMIC

Mastery of Rigorous Application of Learning How to Developing

ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING • Catalina Foothills School District • cfsd16.org 5

CFSD developed a set of rubrics (K-2, 3-5, 6-8,

ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING • Catalina Foothills School District • cfsd16.org 6

4. Key Transition Knowledge and Skills, or “college-knowledge,” encompasses specific knowledge

ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING • Catalina Foothills School District • cfsd16.org 7

Belonging refers to students’ sense of connectedness to peers

Students with a growth mindset believe that they can change

ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING • Catalina Foothills School District • cfsd16.org 8

District and School Improvement Plans

ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING • Catalina Foothills School District • cfsd16.org 9

ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING • Catalina Foothills School District • cfsd16.org 10

Educational Policy Improvement Center (EPIC) (epiconline.org)

P21 - Partnership for 21st Century Learning (http://www.p21.org)

Mindset Works (mindsetworks.com)

The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation - Deeper Learning (www.hewlett.org/deeperlearning)

ENVISION21 – DEEP LEARNING • Catalina Foothills School District • cfsd16.org 11

CFSD DEEP LEARNING GOALS GOAL #1

identifying students for extended math opportunities.

communicate it to parents and the community.

CFSD DEEP LEARNING GOALS GOAL #2

mindsets (belonging, growth, self-efficacy, and relevance).

2017-2018; CFSD (District)

Partner with families and community to achieve our strategic priorities.

engaged in academic programs and students’ learning.

2017-2018; CFSD (District)

CATALINA FOOTHILLS HIGH SCHOOL: 2017-2018 SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN

CFSD DEEP LEARNING GOALS GOAL #1

Cohort Percentage of Goal for Semester 1 Percentage of Goal for Semester 2

Geometry 88% 85% 81% 85%

CFSD DEEP LEARNING GOALS GOAL #2

2017-2018; CFHS School Improvement Plan (CFSD)

Goals for DLPs / Departments

Current DLP Goal Average End-

CFSD DEEP LEARNING GOALS GOAL #3

From % to % in Conventions