This PowerPoint presentation provides an overview of the First Things First (FTF) high school reform program. FTF consists of a three-pronged approach to improving high schools: developing small learning communities, establishing a family advocate system, and emphasizing instructional improvement. FTF has been established in urban and rural school districts in Missouri, Louisiana, and Texas. The presentation shares data collected from FTF districts these states. This data shows that FTF districts that implement smaller learning communities have higher attendance rates, lower dropout rates, and higher graduation rates than before the program was instituted. Results also show a higher percentage of parents attending parent-teacher conferences after the family advocate system is implemented. Additionally, data shows that instructional improvement has resulted in better test scores.
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Background and Context
One key approach to improving instruction for high school students is redesigning the environment and structure in which they learn. Creating smaller learning communities is one way schools are fundamentally reshaping that environment. Guided by a belief that student achievement will improve in a more personalized environment, advocates of smaller learning communities hope that smaller class sizes, increased teacher collaboration, comprehensive advisory systems, and a more relevant and rigorous curriculum will reap substantial gains in academic achievement.
