Why Blended?

Rocketship classrooms allow us to maximize time for personalized learning, striving to reach the right student with the right lesson at the right time. Blended learning is about creating a flexible space where teachers leverage tools—tutors, online learning programs and their peers—to engage kids in a truly personalized learning experience. Innovation is in our DNA; we’re continually narrowing in on what’s best for students and our instruction.

Team Structure

The district's national personalized learning manager supports schools through blended learning implementation in close partnership with the Humanities team and STEM team. This group regularly does walk-through school visits to give feedback to school leaders who can then build capacity in blended learning.

In addition, the district works directly with school leaders to support them in building their content expertise. Then school leaders apply that knowledge to coaching teachers 1:1. That's our way of streamlining support from the district across schools. Our coaching culture is all about supporting teachers in their development. At every Rocketship school, one principal and at least two assistant principals are coaches. Teachers work with coaches on a weekly basis, including classroom observations and 1:1 meetings so they can continue to push their teaching forward. Our coaches are to be in classrooms for newer teachers more often than once a week. Coaches also oversee grade-level team meetings every week while students participate in enrichment activities. This time helps teams work to address the various needs of the students in their grades. With our coaching culture, Rocketship aims to support teacher learning in all phases.

Results

High level of student engagement and ownership in their learning. Teachers and students actively use their data to reach and understand student goals. Teachers are strategically planning lessons based on student data.