Hilton CSD Instructional Framework: how to best facilitate learning experiences for students

The District's Instructional Framework  PDF - Download Adobe Reader  was developed through the Office of Instruction to provide staff with a means by which a range of instructional decisions are designed, planned and implemented so that learning experiences occur for all students.  At the core is “quality learning for all” which indicates Hilton CSD's emphasis on ensuring that all students are provided high quality learning opportunities.  

Around the outside of the framework are habits of mind which reflect the importance of productive learning habits that transcend all subjects, grades, ages and ability levels. These are mental characteristics that enable all students to reflect on what they need to learn and that, over time cause them to be stronger lifelong learners.   Within the outer circle are the attitudes and perceptions that act as the filter to all learning.

Recognizing that negative attitudes and perceptions about learning/tasks, the classroom, peers and/or teachers get in the way of learning; the Instructional Framework suggests that these attitudes and perceptions need to be taught, developed, and as a result changed so that learning is promoted.  One of the major instructional decisions made by all teachers is what knowledge students need to acquire and integrate. In considering that all students, despite their readiness, interest or learning profile, need to acquire and integrate the same content knowledge, this would be done by way of differentiating the content so that all students can attain the core knowledge.  

Additionally, another decision is how will content knowledge be extended and refined. This decision entails the means by which all students will engage in the learning so that they learn more and clarify what they have learned. Similarly, we need to ensure that all students extend and refine knowledge and this is accomplished by differentiating the process for learners.  

Lastly, students need to put the knowledge to use in as meaningful a way as possible. As teachers consider how students can create products to demonstrate their learning, they need to recognize the varied means by which they can accomplish this, hence differentiating the product.  The Hilton Central School District’s Instructional Framework is used as the lens by which a range of instructional decisions as to how best facilitate learning experiences for students. 

For further information, Hilton CSD Executive Director of K-12 Education, Dr. Barbara Surash - 585-392-1000 ext. 6062.