Mid-Atlantic educators collaborate to strengthen instruction during CSI

Educators across the DoWEA Mid-Atlantic District gathered for the second day of Continuous School Improvement professional learning, focusing on data-driven strategies and collaboration to advance teaching practices and student outcomes.

The day opened with remarks from Mid-Atlantic District Superintendent Ryan Smith, who emphasized the critical role of progress monitoring and standards-aligned learning targets. Drawing from his experience coaching lacrosse, soccer and flag football, Smith illustrated how clear goals, timely feedback and intentional adjustments drive improvement in athletics and the classroom alike. He stressed that true student growth requires more than percentages — it demands a deeper understanding of where learners are and where they need to go.

Participants worked in teams to analyze individual student data and evaluate instructional strategies in literacy, mathematics, communication and engagement. They examined how evidence of progress can inform real-time adjustments and strengthen consistency across classrooms and schools.

Marietta Epps-McDaniel, an instructional support specialist who partners with schools on improvement efforts, said the collaborative sessions provided valuable time to review the continuous improvement cycle. “We were able to take a deeper look at the implementation of our strategies and evaluate how they support collective accountability across literacy, mathematics, communication and engagement,” she said. “Reassessing our established systematic processes strengthens how we operationalize our day-to-day work.”

CSI Chair Dr. Jessica Hollway, a teacher at DeLalio Elementary School, added: “When we track our progress together, we identify successful strategies in real-time, allowing the entire team to adopt what works and pivot where necessary. By monitoring our growth as a team, we replace guesswork with evidence, ensuring that our professional collaboration translates directly into student achievement.”

A highlight was the second Raise the Bar Digital Learning Event, which featured 104 sessions presented by volunteer teachers, aides, principals and staff members. The educator-led program gave participants choice and voice in professional development tailored to their needs and interests, showcasing expertise throughout the district.

The sessions reinforced DoWEA’s commitment to building strong foundational skills in students — including the rigorous habits of classical learning that foster critical thinking, clear communication and the knowledge essential for civics education and patriotic understanding.

Closing remarks from teachers, community members, district and regional leaders encouraged participants to apply what they learned. Principal Chester Arizmendi of W.T. Sampson Elementary-High School captured the collective spirit: “When educators come together to learn from one another, we don’t just raise the bar for a day, we elevate learning every day, for every student, everywhere.”