'25 MSAA Summer Institute

Nearly 70% of high school students can't independently read and understand high school-level text. As they observe their students struggle with the assigned reading, teachers feel helpless. They tell their administrators, "I am not a reading teacher!" This presentation will discuss an approach in which administrators guide teachers in the building of a classroom community that enables all students--whether they are three years ahead or 5 years behind--become passionate and skilled readers of advanced text.

Recent research reveals an approach to literacy that can be implemented in all classrooms. Participants in this presentation and simulation will experience actual high school classrooms in which students of all levels enjoy performing readings of complex text, debating interpretations, and writing powerful essays. We will discuss a protocol for classroom observations that fosters a dynamic give-and-take between administrator and teacher as this approach takes root.

Educator evaluation standard II A notes that teachers should "engage all students as active participants; build on students' strengths, interests, cultural backgrounds, and prior knowledge; and facilitate purposeful student-to-student academic discourse..." How can educational leaders support teachers in this endeavor? What simple but powerful strategies can coaches or observers offer that can be implemented immediately to help teachers talk less and make students do more of the cognitive work? This engaging and fast-paced session will provide tools that can nudge teachers in the right direction.

How can schools integrate proactive, Tier 1 Mental Health Literacy (MHL) into their schools as part of a Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS) while aligning with evolving health education standards? During this interactive session, Mental Health Collaborative (MHC), a national nonprofit based in MA, will explore why MHL is critical to include in MTSS and include the four key components of MHL: reducing stigma, understanding mental illnesses, promoting positive mental health, and enhancing help-seeking efficacy. Participants will walk away with actionable steps and evidence-based tools to bring this education to educators, middle and high school students, athletic coaches, and caregivers. This session is designed for school administrators seeking to build sustainable, school-wide mental health initiatives that support students, staff, and families.