heavily in professional learning communities, where educators collaborate to determine the best ways to help students achieve their highest academic potential.” This approach emphasizes real-time assessment and immediate intervention when students struggle with a subject. Dr. White elaborates,“Traditionally, students would learn a topic, take a test, and then move on regardless of their understanding. Our approach is different. We continuously monitor progress and provide multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding, ensuring no one is left behind.” Another key value is a student-centered approach, moving away from the mindset that schools must operate as they always have.“We focus on what is best for the students, not what is most comfortable for the adults in the system,” Dr. White says.“This means we are willing to adapt our teaching methodologies to meet the needs of our learners.” IMPLEMENTING CHANGE BEFORE THE PANDEMIC The district’s forward-thinking approach predates the COVID-19 pandemic. Their early adoption of professional learning communities positioned them to navigate the challenges of remote and hybrid learning more effectively than many other districts. “We started implementing this framework several years before COVID,” Dr. White says. “When the pandemic hit, we were better prepared to adjust and reduce learning gaps as we returned to consistent, in-person education.” RECOGNITION AND AWARDS New Prairie United School Corporation’s innovative approach has garnered national recognition. One of the district’s most significant achievements came in 2023 when Rolling Prairie Elementary School—a school with the highest poverty rate in the district— was named a National Blue Ribbon School. “This award was based on overall student performance, particularly in comparison to schools with similar demographics across Indiana,” Dr. White says. “It is a testament to the effectiveness of our collaborative learning approach and our commitment to student success.” The district has also been recognized as a Model Professional Learning Community School System, with New Prairie Middle School receiving individual accolades. “Our schools are striving towards this 283 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 05 NEW PRAIRIE UNITED SCHOOL CORPORATION
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