CENTRAL COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL

Central Community High School utilizes an internal review process and the development of an annual School Improvement Plan for the purpose of enhancing student achievement. Our students consistently perform above state averages. While we did not meet guidelines for adequate yearly progress on Prairie State Achievement Examination scores as set for No Child Left Behind legislation, we have continued to improve student mastery and skill levels. The review of other data also demonstrates the quality of instruction and broad based curricular offerings at C.C.H.S.

During the 2009-10 school year, the faculty and staff at C.C.H.S. have continued to focus on goals aimed at addressing targeted areas over the next several years. These goals include:

1. The development and implementation of teaching and learning strategies throughout the curriculum that enhance reading comprehension, writing skills, and the critical thinking process.
2. The alignment and articulation of curriculum in all subject areas in a manner that will be most educationally beneficial for students using the Illinois Learning Standards as a foundation.
3. The development of revisions to curricular expectations by a review of existing policies and programs that are based upon the needs of our students.

The School Improvement Team has implemented strategies that address these goals. These include the development of new classroom activities that focus on reading comprehension, writing skills, and critical analysis. Teachers have developed curriculum guides to ensure the coverage of the Illinois Learning Standards. We have implemented a curriculum mapping software program which will assist us in identifying gaps and overlaps in coverage of curriculum. A study of current policies and programs has resulted in increased graduation requirements, a revised list of weighted course opportunities, and new recognition programs for student achievement. The S.I.P. Team has planned professional development training opportunities for teachers aimed at improving instruction and increasing the level of achievement by students.

The S.I.P. Team has developed several recognition programs to reward academic accomplishment including the implementation of a cum laude system at graduation ceremonies and an Academic Achievement Awards ceremony for students performing at high levels. C.C.H.S. has implemented the EXPLORE and PLAN Testing programs for student preparation and performance on the A.C.T. Test. These testing results will also provide data for trend analysis of student performance. We have also implemented a workshop with intensive training and preparation for the Prairie State Achievement Examination to enhance performance.

Central Community High School utilizes a Curriculum Review Cycle that provides each subject area an opportunity to review their curriculum, teaching methods, and instructional materials for the purpose of improvement. The Physical Education/Driver Education/Health and Fine Arts Departments are implementing new curriculum, additional course offerings, and instructional materials adopted in 2008-09. During 2009-10 school year, the Vocational program will examine the concepts covered in each course and make recommendations for the adoption of new textbooks and instructional materials. The teachers in these subjects will implement new classroom expectations and curricular programs during the 2010-11 school year.

Each year the effectiveness of our strategies will be reviewed and a new annual School Improvement Plan will be developed that attempts to enhance the successes of our programs and address the weaknesses of others. The C.C.H.S. School Improvement Team welcomes the comments and opinions of members in the community. A Needs Assessment Survey will be distributed to solicit input and feedback on school related topics. The success of our educational programs requires the support and commitment of everyone in the educational community.

Central Community High School continues to provide quality educational services for youth in our community. By recognizing the need for continual improvement, enhancing instruction, and working with all stakeholders, our school will enhance the opportunities of students.