Teaching and Learning
Kathy Dodd, Ph.D.
Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning / Biography
(918) 357-4321
Philosophy of Teaching and Learning
Union Public Schools’ philosophy of curriculum, instruction and assessment is a student-centered, researched-based approach designed to 
address the needs of unique and diverse learners, including the primary elements of inquiry, differentiation, assessment, and technology.
Inquiry
An old adage states: "Tell me and I forget, show me and I remember, involve me and I understand." Inquiry implies involvement that leads to understanding. Furthermore, involvement in learning implies possessing skills and attitudes that permit you to seek resolutions to questions and issues while you construct new knowledge.
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Comprehensive reading program
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Everyday Mathematics, a standards-based elementary mathematics program
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Hands-On Equations for development of algebraic concepts in elementary grades
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Science and Technology for Children (STC) elementary science kits
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Strong laboratory science program
Differentiation
Differentiation is the understanding that each student is unique and has his or her own educational needs. Rather than “teach to the middle,” Union educators employ strategies to ensure that no child is left behind.
- Use of instructional strategies designed to individualize instruction, including gifted, English Language Learners (ELL), special education, and extended-day programs.
- Accelerated Math program for remediation and enrichment
- Cognitive Tutor curriculum option for algebra students
- Extensive Pre-AP and AP (Advanced Placement) program
- Excellent fine arts program
- Award-winning alternative program
Assessment
Assessment involves the processes used to collect information about student progress toward educational goals. The particular form of an assessment depends on what is being assessed and on how the results of the assessment will be used. Assessments can range from small-scale assessments that teachers use in the classroom to obtain day-to-day information about student progress; through medium-scale assessments that school districts use to evaluate the effectiveness of schools or educational programs; all the way to large-scale assessments that state or national bodies use to assess the degree to which students have met large educational goals.
- Locally-designed assessments to gauge student mastery of essential skills
- Portfolio assessments in elementary grades to provide diagnostic reading information
- Evening, Saturday, and elective classes to assist students with ACT and SAT test preparation
- Academic Camp for Enrichment, a summer academy for 10th graders, designed to maximize students’ qualification for National Merit Semifinalist program.
Technology
Technology at Union Public Schools is a tool that is used to help students and staff be more effective and efficient. A variety of technology tools provide many resources to access and process information critical to answering questions, solving problems and constructing new knowledge.
- Teacher and student use of technology to enhance teaching and learning
- Software to maximize the use of state-level assessment data
- Computer labs and classroom stations at each site
- Broadcast studios for student-led productions
