Walnut Grove School Patterson Joint Unified School District

1
Walnut Grove SchoolPatterson Joint Unified
School District

The K-8 Model Exploring A Choice for the Future
2
What is a K-8 School?

• A school with a continuous grade span that
  begins with kindergarten or pre-K and ends after
  the 8th grade. David Hough
• Editor, Research in Middle Education

3
Why is PJUSD Considering a K-8 Program at
Walnut Grove School?

• Current research on K-8 schools
• Consistent with Student Achievement Plan
• A smaller middle school population, potentially
  allows for a more intimate/nurturing educational
  environment

4
Facts about K-8 Schools

• Unlike other elementary schools in the district,
  Walnut Grove School 5th graders would stay at the
  site 6th through 8th grade
• After the 8th grade, they would articulate to PHS
• Current plans have Walnut Grove opening with
  500-600 students. This would mean less than 200
  middle schoolers.

5
Facts about K-8 Schools

• Benefits for kids and parents
• Long-term relationships with teachers
• East side students stay closer to home
• Same school schedule as younger siblings
• Familiar building

6
One Journal Summary

• Many school systems conducting their own
  research are finding students in grades 6, 7 and
  8 who attend K-8 schools are scoring higher than
  their counterparts in other grade-span schools as
  measured by standardized and state assessment
  exams.
• D. Hough, 2005

7

• K-8 Schools
• Potential Advantages, Concerns Design Issues

8
Other Potential Advantages

• Facilitates teacher teaming and planning
• Advanced options for younger students
• Additional sports opportunities possible
• Cross-age tutoring
• Flexible scheduling for all students

9
Common Parent Concerns When Considering K-8
Schools

• Social, emotional, academic differences
• Schedule options classes and building
• Difference between K-5 and 6-8 philosophy
• Middle grade students interacting with younger
  students
• K-8 preparation for high school
• Dont get to experience advanced activities

10
Issues for K-8 Design Consideration

• Choices must be made in the structure of a K-8
  school considering
• Student differences at each level
• Organization of electives and required courses
• Advanced options for students
• Best practices at both elementary and middle
  school levels

11
Exploring K-8 Schools Strategies

• Involve all stakeholders
• Research schools with the same structure
• Consider best fit with community values
• Thoughtful consideration

Have questions? Please contact Walnut Grove
Schools Principal, Steve Charbonneau
at scharbonneau_at_patterson.k12.ca.us