The Kennewick School district holds as its highest priority supporting the professional growth of its staff so that every classroom provides the maximum learning experience for each student. We also believe that clarity and focus provide a strong foundation for growth.

To that end, a task force of teachers and administrators formed to define and describe the essential core of what effective teaching and learning is in our district. It is the hope of the task force that these DVDs will assist your instructional leaders in examining great instruction.

A few words of caution. First, as we explore the elements of great instruction with teachers, it is important to stay positive. We want the process to be inclusive and staff to be eager to participate. The focus is on everyone getting better at their practice. We do not use this process as part of our district's evaluation system. Too often, evaluation is viewed as a system of criticism. Negativity or perceived criticism can cause people to hesitate to participate. Second, keep it simple and don't try to do too much at one time. Work carefully with your administrators and teachers to gain ownership of the process.

It is our privilege to share our work with you.