Overview

In Seattle, the initiative is known as the Flight School Initiative. It is implemented in two cohorts, or flights, each consisting of elementary, middle and high schools that form a feeder pattern. Altogether, 16 schools are part of the initiative. The initiative consists of three components: the alignment of curriculum and instruction, the development of professional learning communities and the engagement of families and community members.

Key Strategies

The initiative focuses on neighborhood clusters to provide a coherent and aligned approach for students as they transition through the district's schools. In order to improve family and community engagement, the FSI schools have used several new strategies, including conducting home visits and sponsored family nights.

Results

At Foundation-funded schools, the student achievement rates have surpassed the state's average in reading and math. Also, educators are reporting a positive professional climate and dramatically increased communication with parents. Approximately 77 percent of students' parents received a home visit by school educators in the past year.

Related Resources

Parent/Teacher Home Visits: Creating a bridge between parents and teachers as co-educators in Springfield, MA, and Seattle, WA, Nov. 2011

Program aims to give schools a flying start, The Seattle Times, Sept. 5, 2007

District in line for $1.2 million grant, The Seattle Times, March 29, 2006