Direct Instruction program
In grades pre-k through 5th, the Direct Instruction program is utilized as the primary reading, language and spelling curriculum. Direct Instruction is a research-based, data-driven model that emphasizes teaching concepts to mastery. Students are placed in instructional groups based on their individual needs. All skills and concepts are explicitly taught in a highly structured learning environment and practiced until students are capable of performing the tasks independently. This program has proven successful with all learners, including students with special needs and high-performing students.
Ready to Read Act
Govans Elementary is committed to identifying and addressing the needs of each student. To this end and in response to recent legislation from the Maryland General Assembly (Senate Bill 734, Ready to Read Act), Govans Elementary will be using the MAP Reading Fluency as a literacy screener on all Kindergarten students to determine students’ foundational reading skills and to predict the risk of future difficulties so that appropriate early intervention can take place. In addition, we will also screen any students in Grades 1-3 who shows some level of risk on their MAP Growth assessment, as well as those who are new and not previously screened. The screening program occurs three times during the year: the beginning of the year (BOY); the middle of the year (MOY); and the end of the year (EOY). Parents will be notified by the school of their student’s results and any intervention support that is recommended. Want to learn more? Download the Ready to Read Act by clicking here.
Core Knowledge
The Core Knowledge curriculum includes authentic fiction and nonfiction texts that teachers read aloud. These texts are grouped in knowledge domains that create interactive opportunities to question, discuss and share central ideas. This curriculum ensures students are well prepared when they transition from “learning to read” to “reading to learn.” For more information about this program, visit www.coreknowledge.org.
Enrichment Classes
Enrichment classes at Govans enhance the core curricular studies in the classroom. Our scheduling includes Art, Physical Education, Library and Computer Science. Enrichment classes are taught in a four-day rotation for 45 minutes each day.
Restorative Practice
Govans is committed to building a caring school community, one based on positive relationships, inclusivity and respect. We do this, in part, through our Restorative Practices program, a comprehensive, whole-school approach to building community and reducing conflict. Based on best practices outlined by the International Institute of Restorative Practices, we are committed to providing high-quality training and support to all of our school staff so we can better meet the needs of our students and families.
