Visit to Presidio Middle School 22/03/2011

Group photo taken outside Presidio Middle School

The morning visit on Tuesday, 22 March 2011 was enlightening and memorable. These are the 3 big ideas that highlight the learning that transpired from the visit.

Leadership and Culture
The warmth extended by the Principal, Ms. Pamela L. Clisham, was evident from the moment we stepped into the school.She guided the 5-hour tour personally, gave us commentaries on the proceedings of the school, answered all our queries and engaged us in meaningful discussions about the education system in San Francisco. When we had the lesson walk-throughs, the teachers were inviting and approachable, friendly yet confident, and they exuded a nurturing disposition. This positive culture was also reflected in the well-behaved and well-mannered students who were engaged learners.  It was evident that Ms Clisham believes in building a strong culture of trust, respect and professionalism among her teachers and pupils.

Teaching and Learning
The curriculum features a daily timetable of 6 periods, which enables students to do 4 core-subjects (English, Maths, Science & Social Studies), PE and Electives daily. Teachers specialised in teaching 2 Subjects and 1 Elective which allows them to be masters in their own discipline. We were impressed by an Algebra lesson conducted by Ms Mitchel using the iPad, which replaced the textbook. Students were fully engaged and self-directed. Some of the wide-range of electives offered includes drama, band, basketball and yearbook. Students were very clear of the routines, expectations and consequences of the choices they make. Restorative Practice was a strategy employed to counsel students with behavioural challenges. 

(a)    (b)

(a) Every pupil is loaned an iPad for the year to be used for Algebra lessons

(b) Ms Mitchel showing us the online text and related Apps on the iPad

Partnerships

The Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA) is very active and directly involved in many of the school programmes. They welcomed us with a spread of homemade pastries , which took us completely by surprise.

The parent volunteers are actively involved in fund-raising that help finance the running of the school programmes. For example, the school’s auditorium (stage and AV system) was upgraded which allowed the school to stage musicals or plays every year. The students are also involved as stakeholders in the PTSA to make decisions. The school and the community work together to pool their resources to enhance student learning.

After the visit, we understood  why Presidio Middle School was well-sought after in the community. The warmth, sincerity and professionalism exuded by the teachers and the administrators were deeply felt.

Written by Uma, Emlyn, Safidah and Khalid