As we begin 2024 and start the spring semester in the J. O. Combs Unified School District, we celebrate a collective dedication to providing a personalized modern learning environment for all our students. Extensive educational research consistently demonstrates the importance of personalizing the educational experience for students and families. This environment provides an atmosphere that nurtures diverse student competencies, fosters self-direction and prepares students for success in careers and higher education.
The foundation for this educational experience is the district’s active participation in the national Modern Teacher Network, a coalition of school districts nationwide committed to creating a modern learning environment for students. Through the district’s initiative, #Forward, we integrate the state mandated curriculum within a modern learning framework.
What are the defining elements of a modern learning environment? The J. O. Combs Unified School District is committed to personalizing the student learning experience. This entails tailoring lessons to a student’s knowledge level, skill sets and interests while adhering to the state curriculum. Personalizing the learning experience helps ensure that lessons focus on where the child is in their learning and works to increase student performance to achieve success in learning, thereby increasing academic performance on state-mandated tests. This personalized approach empowers students to take ownership in their education.
Students work with teachers to unpack curriculum standards, utilizing learning road maps and learning walls to increase comprehension. Furthermore, students maintain data notebooks, enabling them to monitor their progress and assessment results. This reflective progress equips them with insights into their strengths and areas requiring improvement.
Simultaneously, our district places a great emphasis on career education starting as early as fourth grade. Our curriculum for career exploration, combined with teaching essential workplace skills, ensures that our students are well-prepared for success in their chosen path upon graduating from our district whether that is college, career or enlistment.
In line with our commitment to modern learning, we embrace technology. Combs is a one-to-one district, which affords all students access to a computer. Moreover, we offer diverse learning opportunities through traditional face-to-face instruction, blended learning and online courses. Recognizing the pivotal role of technology in both the workforce and daily life, we provide our students with the essential digital skills they need to succeed.
For this innovative work, the district has received national recognition as a District of Distinction. Our staff and programs have consistently been recognized over the past five years as educational leaders in embracing a modern learning environment.
As we embark on a new year and semester, we are committed to continue our journey toward excellence in education, ensuring that each student receives the personalized modern learning experience they deserve. Together, we lay the foundation for their future success, and we are excited to see our students thrive in 2024 and beyond.
Dr. Gregory A. Wyman is superintendent of the J.O. Combs Unified School District.
