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Administrator’s Corner by Kristi Kenis

At Sibley Elementary, our mission is to help every student reach their academic and social-emotional potential. Through the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) framework, we deliver high-quality, personalized instruction tailored to meet the unique needs of each learner.

Our teachers use data-driven approaches to guide their planning and support student success. Recently, they have been analyzing updated math and reading data to identify key areas for growth. This information informs small group instruction, which is implemented during reading and math time across all grade levels. During “What I Need” (WIN) time, students work with teachers, educational assistants, success coaches and interventionists on targeted skills. For instance, in kindergarten reading, students practice segmenting three- and four-sound words. Once they master this skill, they progress to building words with magnetic letters and reading them fluently. In math for older grades, students focus on mastering basic addition, subtraction, multiplication and division through hands-on activities and games, which enhance their number sense and reduce cognitive load. This solid foundation enables them to tackle more advanced grade-level concepts with confidence.

To ensure our teaching strategies are effective, we continuously monitor student progress. Weekly progress checks allow us to assess learning outcomes, adjust instructional groupings and introduce new challenges as students master specific skills. This dynamic approach ensures consistent growth for every child.

As we begin a new semester, our team is revisiting data to identify trends, address areas for improvement and refine instructional strategies. Collaborative discussions help us pinpoint students needing additional support or enrichment, enabling us to implement differentiated instruction and dynamic groupings. These practices keep students engaged in meaningful, targeted learning activities during WIN time while allowing teachers to focus on learning acceleration.

Learning acceleration is a key strategy at Sibley, designed to prepare students for success with current grade-level content. It integrates critical concepts and skills from previous grades into their current instruction. This approach is applied across all tiers of MTSS, beginning with Tier 1 core instruction, which forms the foundation for mastering grade-level standards.
Thanks to the dedication of our talented educators and support staff, every student at Sibley receives individualized instruction to meet their needs and achieve success. WIN time, supported by the MTSS framework, ensures that students receive the resources and attention required to thrive while making progress in grade-level instruction.

Thanks to the dedication of our talented educators, support staff and collaborative community, every student at Sibley Elementary is empowered to achieve their personal best. By combining individualized instruction, data-driven strategies and a shared commitment to growth, we are creating a supportive and dynamic learning environment where every child can thrive. Together, we are building a foundation for lifelong learning and success, ensuring that every student at Sibley reaches their full potential.

Kristi Kenis is principal of Sibley Elementary School.