Developing a Partnership with FSU

This school reform journey began with teachers who wanted to make a difference in the lives of their students--and we are determined to keep that focus.  Rather than becoming an actual New Tech high school at this point, we decided to begin our transformation by changing the experiences of our students and teachers.  We want to work on the "nuts and bolts" of the educational practice, and yet we knew that the grass roots efforts we have begun will need structure as we carry on.

Therefore, we have reached out to Fairmont State University to help us with this challenge.  Dr. Van Dempsey, Dean of the School of Education, has been working with North Marion teachers and administration to help us redesign our school.  Recently, Dr. Dempsey worked with us to write the Benedum Foundation Grant.  He listened to our plans and helped us organize our efforts into PLCs.  These Professional Learning Committees of 5-8 people will become "experts" in specific areas which we've identified as key to our vision.  In addition, Dr. Dempsey and his colleague, Professor Denise Lindstrom, will work with North Marion teachers as a part of FSU's new Digital Media and New Literacies in Learning Master's Degree classes. 

We are optimistic that capitalizing on the long-standing relationship we have with both Dr. Dempsey and Fairmont State University will be the right move for North Marion!