Superintendent Newsletter

Last month, the LASD Board of Trustees approved a Strategic Plan focused on the academic success of every student attending our schools.

One of the ways we are working to implement the goals of the Strategic Plan is by implementing Deeper Learning in our classrooms.

Deeper Learning is an educational approach that goes beyond memorization and surface-level understanding, focusing on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and the application of knowledge in real-world contexts.

It encourages students to engage actively with content, ask meaningful questions, and explore concepts deeply, often through inquiry-based learning and hands-on projects. Deeper learning aims to foster skills such as creativity, communication, and adaptability, empowering students to become self-directed learners who can apply what they learn to new situations and challenges.

It prepares students not only to succeed academically but also to thrive in their personal lives by emphasizing the practical use of knowledge.

Deeper Learning involves four principles of instruction to empower student learning:

1. Learning Through Inquiry

2. Making Learning Public

3. Amplifying Student Voice

4. Activating the 6 Cs

Throughout the year our teachers will be designing experiences for students with these four principles for Deeper Learning in mind.

Inquiry-based approaches to learning enable students to take an active role in building knowledge and “learning to learn” by managing their own learning process. With inquiry learning, students don't just receive and memorize information. Instead, students learn by questioning, considering a range of possibilities and alternatives, and applying their knowledge to read-world problems. Inquiry includes play-based learning, project-based learning, and problem-based learning.

Making learning public involves sharing the process and outcomes of student learning with a wider audience, such as peers, educators, or the community. This practice encourages accountability, reflection, and feedback, allowing students to showcase their understanding while deepening their engagement with the material.

Amplifying student voice means empowering students to express their ideas, opinions, and perspectives in meaningful ways, allowing them to take ownership of their learning. It fosters a learning environment where students' contributions are valued, leading to greater engagement and agency.

Activating the 6 Cs refers to fostering six key competencies in students: collaboration, communication, creativity, critical thinking, citizenship, and character. By integrating these skills into learning experiences, educators prepare students for success in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

Throughout this year, teachers will build on their expertise in these areas, diving deeper into the tasks, teaching moves, and learning environments that truly put students at the center of their learning.

As you discuss your student's school day with them, listen for the experiences they share with you about Deeper Learning. We're excited to share more of these student learning experiences with you as the school year unfolds!