The division of instruction is responsible for educating all of our students here in Martinsville. It is our goal to equip them with the tools to be successful in today’s global economy. In doing so, it is important to us to support our division mission of “Empowering Success One Learner at a Time,” so that our students can apply what they learn beyond the walls of our schools.

Division Beliefs:

• All children are unique individuals with special gifts and talents

• All people in the organization, both children and adults, are to be valued and respected

• Risk-taking, problem-solving, teamwork, creativity, and a sense of humor are traits we embrace

• The community is our customer, and ideas and opinions are valued and acted upon

• We recognize that a positive relationship between adults and students is vital to the learning process

• Decisions should be made in terms of what is best for our children’s education

Literacy is one of the most important foundations of learning. As a gateway to academic achievement, literacy not only sets a student up for academic success, it also gives them the ability to communicate clearly and effectively as well as develop more sophisticated ways of thinking.

Our Reading Specialists

Our division's reading specialists are in place to support, supplement, and extend classroom teaching. They work collaboratively to implement a quality reading program with short and long range goals based on district and state curriculum requirements, student profiles, and instructional priorities. They are responsible for identifying specific intended learning outcomes that are challenging, meaningful and measurable as well as planning and preparing a variety of learning activities that consider a student's individual culture, learning styles, special needs, and socioeconomic background.

Our reading specialists must have:

• Knowledge of child growth and development and especially the characteristics of students and children in the age group they work with

• Knowledge of prescribed curriculum

• Basic understanding and knowledge of current technology

• Knowledge of learning styles

• Ability to use varied teaching methods

• Knowledge of current trends, research and best practices related to reading instruction

• Knowledge of School Board policies and practices as they relate to teaching

• Ability to handle problems, concerns, and emotional distress with sensitivity and tact

• Ability to communicate orally and in writing with students, parents, and others

• Ability to plan, establish priorities, and implement activities for maximum effectiveness

• Ability to assess levels of student achievement effectively, analyze test results, and prescribe actions for improvement

• Ability to work with parents

• Ability to work effectively with peers, administrators, and others