The Neglected R

Recently, Purdue University sponsored a Writing Summit for the top 100 experts in writing in the state of Indiana entitled "The Neglected R". The summit was by invitation only and Plymouth Schools had three attendees. Anne Liechty, Kathy Richter and Dan Tyree were heavily involved in the day-long summit. Other attendees were from Purdue University, Indiana University, Ivy Tech, Indiana Department of Education, Indiana Arts Council, various Indiana Service Centers, and other high schools throughout Indiana.

Topics covered included the following: Believes about Writing Instruction, Effective P-16 Writing Practices, Expectations for Graduating High School Students, Writing across the Curriculum, Pre-service Education for Future Teachers, Effective Professional Development, Writing Assessment Data, and Writing Digitally.

It was quite clear that Plymouth Schools are ahead of most schools in the state as we are not only turning out students who are comfortable in technical writing and college writing situations. Plymouth teachers deserve a pat on the back for the hard work it has taken to implement a K-12 writing program.

Plymouth attendees made important new contacts that will help provide the necessary network to turn out students capable of meeting and exceeding the expectations of Indiana’s universities and Ivy Tech.

Shakescenes at Notre Dame

Regina Warren, Lincoln Junior High Drama Director, took eight students to the Notre Dame Shakespeare Festival Sunday, August 13. The students performed a 15 minute scene from Romeo and Juliet. The students also took part in three workshops, and watched the last dress rehearsal of Notre Dame’s summer Shakespeare show.