Virginia’s Foundation Blocks for Early Learning Making Connections to Shining Stars July 2013

1. Virginia’s Foundation Blocks for Early Learning Making Connections to Shining Stars July 2013 Big Ideas Integration of subject areas is key. Young children learn through meaningful and relevant experiences. Oral language and thinking skills are key. Studies show that teachers get low scores on their ability to promote high-order thinking skills, offer quality feedback, and provide models for using language well. Self-regulation is key. Research shows that self-regulation behaviors predict school achievement in reading and math better than IQ scores. It’s a Set! Foundation Blocks Rubric Quality Indicators Roll-Out at the Local Level Teachers need to be very familiar with content of each standard almost to the point of memorization so that integration can take place easily and naturally. Use the rubric to check alignment of current curriculum choices—make needed adjustments. Imbed the quality indicators in training, observation, and feedback. Professional Development TYPE-Pre-Service or In-Service LEVEL-Awareness or Utilization Training and Coaching (Joyce and Showers, 2002) Reaching Teachers Through Reflective and Responsive Teaching

2. Statewide Training and Technical Assistance Training and Technical Assistance Centers (T/TAC), http://www.doe.virginia.gov/special_ed/tech_asst_prof_dev/ttac/index.shtml Virginia Cross-Sector Professional Development (VCPD), www.vcpd.net Teacher Direct, http://www.doe.virginia.gov/testing/teacher_direct/index.shtml 4. VDOE Early Childhood, http://www.doe.virginia.gov/instruction/early_childhood/index.shtml VCPD Needs Assessment Results Literacy and Oral Language Personal and Social Development (includes self-regulation and other executive function skills) Science Resources Tools of the Mindis a research-based early childhood program that builds strong foundations for school success by promoting intentional and self-regulated learning. The instructional philosophy is inspired by the work of Lev Vygotsky. A Tools curriculum combines activities specifically designed to promote self-regulation with activities that focus on academic skills, while also giving children the opportunity to practice self-regulation and other executive function skills. A key feature of Tools professional development is the training of district staff to provide on-going coaching support to teachers as they implement the program. The PATHS Program (Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies), Channing and Bete, 2012 3. Handbook of Early Childhood Education edited by Robert Pianta, Steven Barnett, Laura Justice, and Susan Sheridan, 2012 4. Preschool Pathways to Science (PrePS), RochelGelman, Kimberly Brenneman, Gay Macdonald, and Moises Roman, 2010 101 Principles for Positive Guidance with Young Children by Dr. Katharine Kersey and Dr. Marie Masterson, 2013 Cheryl P. Strobel Virginia Department of Education Associate Director of Early Childhood Education Cheryl.Strobel@doe.virginia.gov 804-371-7578 The Virginia Department of Education does not endorse early childhood curricula, publications, or vendors.