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| George-Little Rock Superintendent Steve Barber |
1.) all people can learn and succeed;
2.) every person is a valued participant in the life long learning process;
3.) application of knowledge enhances learning;
4.) the basic moral attitudes of the community will be reflected in their educational program;
5.) all people must learn to adapt to change;
6.) all people have worth;
7.) quality education is the foundation of a productive society;
8.) education plays a vital role in developing a well-rounded individual
9.) education must take place in a safe environment; and
10.) high expectations are a must.
The PBL concept has added excitement to learning in this district. Project
Based Learning (PBL) provided a "Genius Week" where students were
challenged to create something or fix a problem. They submitted their
proposal to a committee before break. During break, resources were organized. After break, each group worked through the project with
presentations taking place at the end of the week. Staff embraced this
PBL project, and it was well received by students. Teachers were the
resource and facilitated the learning. It helped to energize learning in the school. In the words of Superintendent
Barber, "When you experiment and try something different, it's the
process that is valued. It does not matter if you fail or not."
Enhancements have taken place here. Their auditorium seats over 440 people. A new commons area and a new gym have added to school pride.
Are the ten beliefs listed on the George-Little Rock website more than just words? You bet - just visit the district and see for yourself.
2.) every person is a valued participant in the life long learning process;
3.) application of knowledge enhances learning;
4.) the basic moral attitudes of the community will be reflected in their educational program;
5.) all people must learn to adapt to change;
6.) all people have worth;
7.) quality education is the foundation of a productive society;
8.) education plays a vital role in developing a well-rounded individual
9.) education must take place in a safe environment; and
10.) high expectations are a must.
District Demographics:
Enrollment 453
Free/Reduced Lunch 38%
Hands on learning activities in this district include a creative curriculum in preschool (discovery
learning through play) and Pint Size Science in Kindergarten (hands on learning activities for discovery learning related to science concepts). Mock trial, Lego League, and HS Robotics make learning in these areas authentic and engaging. Five students attended NASA camp where they were put on teams and given 48 hours to solve a problem. The Drama Department is very active-79 were involved in large group competition. FFA is active & provides a strong connection to the community. Many students participate in the music programs. Engaged learning is valued.
learning through play) and Pint Size Science in Kindergarten (hands on learning activities for discovery learning related to science concepts). Mock trial, Lego League, and HS Robotics make learning in these areas authentic and engaging. Five students attended NASA camp where they were put on teams and given 48 hours to solve a problem. The Drama Department is very active-79 were involved in large group competition. FFA is active & provides a strong connection to the community. Many students participate in the music programs. Engaged learning is valued.
In this district CGI (Cognitive Guided
Instruction) has been adopted for math with training two days before
school began. The elementary holds a STEM Day where community members
and high school students coordinate and teach a variety of STEM
lessons. In an effort to meet the needs of students, George-Little Rock also provides an intensive summers school
program - 90 minutes for three weeks after the school year ends and 90
minutes for three weeks in August.
The PBL concept has added excitement to learning in this district. Project
Based Learning (PBL) provided a "Genius Week" where students were
challenged to create something or fix a problem. They submitted their
proposal to a committee before break. During break, resources were organized. After break, each group worked through the project with
presentations taking place at the end of the week. Staff embraced this
PBL project, and it was well received by students. Teachers were the
resource and facilitated the learning. It helped to energize learning in the school. In the words of Superintendent
Barber, "When you experiment and try something different, it's the
process that is valued. It does not matter if you fail or not."
Mr. Barber said that Professional Learning Communities in his district have empowered the teachers to lead in instruction. Through the PLC framework, teachers are studying Learning by Design and strategy development. This helps to provide essential questions that drive and keep instruction relevant for students. Challenging traditional pedagogies is difficult, but the George-Little Rock mission for instruction is "Through collaboration we will enhance instructional strategies that will improve student achievement." This mission along with the PLC framework have helped to create a strong climate and culture in this school district.
An active School Improvement Advisory Council (SIAC) which met six times this past year, involves the community and parents who provide input into improving their district. This group meets on Fridays from 11-1 with lunch provided and focused discussions. Everyone leaves energized and excited about what is happening at George-Little Rock.
Enhancements have taken place here. Their auditorium seats over 440 people. A new commons area and a new gym have added to school pride. 
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