One of just 200 Indiana schools to receive the designation School of Promising Practice, Discovery Middle School is being recognized for its “effective implementation of the promising practice of Student Centered Instruction.”

Principal Sheryll Harper explains, “At Discovery we pride ourselves on being a very student-centered school. Students ALWAYS come first! Teacher-leaders consistently identify and develop best practices in all classrooms. Classrooms are engaging places where we make learning visible. Collaboration among students and among staff is a common practice at Discovery.”

She continues, “We believe that one of the best ways for us to represent this engaging learning environment is through our practice of student-led conferencing. When students analyze their learning goals, they begin to monitor and celebrate their own growth. This exemplifies the power of student voice at our school.

“The proof of our success lies within our students' high standardized test scores AND in their performances here every day!”

IDOE’s letter of commendation announcing the award states, “Identified programs, like Discovery’s, are student-centered and focused on positively impacting students through innovative programming and activities that provide a high quality learning environment and experience. By highlighting these practices an opportunity for educators to network with one another will be created - allowing educators to learn about best practices that are taking place throughout our great state.”

State Superintendent Glenda Ritz’s message, imprinted on the school’s award certificate, is clear and emphatic: “Thank you for making it happen!”

More information can be found at the Department’s website: www.doe.in.gov/outreach/promising-practices.