Imagine navigating the complex world of curriculum development and teacher support with the grace and precision of a seasoned conductor leading an orchestra. That’s exactly what Jill Cross, a national board-certified teacher with two decades of experience, does in her role as Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Born Bloom Jewish Community School. Her journey from an accidental educator to a curriculum maestro is not just inspiring but packed with practical insights for tutors looking to enhance their impact in the classroom.
The Journey from Novice to Curriculum Expert
Jill Cross’s entry into education was as unexpected as it was transformative. Starting with no formal education background, she found herself teaching art part-time and eventually apologizing to her first-year students for her initial naivety. Her career took her through various educational landscapes, from public to independent schools, culminating in her current role where she manages a unique challenge: delivering a full General Studies curriculum in two-thirds of the school day. Jill’s story is a testament to the power of adaptability and the importance of integrating curriculum to meet diverse educational needs.
2. Integrated Curriculum: Her experience at a museum school and now at a Jewish day school highlights the effectiveness of integrated learning approaches in maximizing educational outcomes within limited time frames.
3. Relationship Building: Jill emphasizes the significance of building strong relationships with faculty to foster a collaborative environment conducive to curriculum development and implementation.
Navigating Teacher Identity and Curriculum Changes
One of the most intriguing challenges Jill discusses is how teachers often internalize the curriculum as part of their identity. This deep connection can make curriculum changes feel like a personal affront. Jill’s approach involves balancing teachers’ passions with the school’s educational goals, fostering a culture of autonomy and collaboration. She encourages informal conversations and peer observations as professional development tools, helping teachers see the bigger picture and embrace change as a collective journey.
Strategies for Effective Classroom Observations
Efficiency and personalization are key to Jill’s success in managing her multifaceted role. She relies heavily on digital tools and a structured approach to her daily tasks, including setting top priorities and using a simple Post-It note system for classroom visits. Jill’s method of short, focused meetings with teachers and her strategy of integrating curriculum across subjects not only enhances her productivity but also empowers teachers to achieve more within their limited time. Her approach is a blueprint for tutors seeking to optimize their time and impact in the classroom.
I think one thing I enjoyed about being a classroom teacher was I would go in my room and shut the door and I could do my thing… I don’t think I really understood until I moved into a curriculum role like, oh, there’s a whole ecosystem that is outside of this.
Building Trust Through Informal Observations
Trust is the cornerstone of Jill’s relationship with her faculty. She begins the school year with informal classroom visits, focusing on positive feedback to alleviate any potential anxiety. By modeling teaching and offering resources, Jill positions herself as a supportive partner rather than an evaluator. This approach not only builds trust but also encourages a growth mindset among teachers, reinforcing the idea that brains can change and improve with the right support and challenges.
At the start of every single school year… I pop in without doing kind of official note-taking and I just pop in and I send a text out afterwards that’s like a positive thing.
Color-Coding: A Simple Yet Effective Organizational Tool
One of Jill’s practical tips for tutors is the use of color-coding to enhance organization. By assigning specific colors to different subjects across the school, students and teachers can easily navigate their materials. This system, which Jill plans to extend to younger grades, not only streamlines organization but also instills a sense of continuity and familiarity that can benefit students as they progress through their educational journey. For tutors, adopting such simple yet effective strategies can significantly improve classroom management and student engagement.
In a world where educational challenges are ever-present, Jill Cross’s insights remind us that with the right approach, we can transform these challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. As tutors, we play a pivotal role in shaping the minds of our students, and by embracing strategies like integrated learning, building strong relationships, and fostering a growth mindset, we can truly make a difference. The villain in this story is the belief that brains are static and unchangeable, a narrative we must actively combat. By challenging ourselves and our students, we can unlock the full potential of learning.
Join the Learning Success affiliate program to enhance your tutoring services and boost your income while helping your students overcome learning challenges.
Author: Laura Lurns
Find me on X https://x.com/lauralurns