School In-Service Programs

The Gateway Writing Project,

a National Writing Project affiliate since 1978, facilitates in-service, school-based professional learning programs dedicated to improving literacy learning in St. Louis area schools. As our name implies, we have particular expertise in the teaching of writing; however, we have a network of teacher consultants who are skilled in teaching all components of literacy across all grade levels and within the disciplines.

To promote both teacher and student learning,

we work with districts, schools, and teachers to craft opportunities for professional learning that are connected to the everyday practice of teaching and relevant to the district’s curriculum and teachers’ professional needs. GWP believes strongly in teacher leadership and a “teachers teaching teachers” model. We aim to partner with schools to develop their capacity to examine their own practice and to empower a cadre of teacher leaders who will help build sustained systems of support for literacy teaching and learning.

By Design

As we create Professional Development sessions, we include:
 

• theory, research , AND methods for application highlighting best practice

• the why behind what we are doing

• application ideas that are transferable to different content areas and grade levels

• an asset lens approach

• opportunities for participant choice

• community building that promotes a supportive relationship between facilitators and participants

• opportunities for continued connection with Gateway Writing Project

• a positive culture of giving and receiving feedback

• a collection of resources for continued access and further learning

• connections to state standards from multiple disciplines

In Practice

During Professional Learning sessions, the participants will:

• write into the session

• set an intention for the work

• engage in experiential learning that includes purposeful: reading, discussion, writing, modeling, practice, reflection, and feedback

• apply new learning during work time

• make a commitment to try a new method/strategy following the PL

 During PL sessions, the facilitators will:

• come prepared

• be positive

• share a book talk

• provide an agenda including learning objectives

• be responsive to the room

• recognize the expertise in the room

• allow for vulnerability

• do checks for learning