Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/54552
On Howenstine Stage, cont. from page 11 Priority Schools Campaign Student's in Chuck Sillence's shop class work with construc- tion material to help Habitat for Humanity Tucson build three- bedroom homes for low-income families. "All across the country, we're seeing success because of partnerships among students, parents, educators, districts, government, community organizations, businesses and foundations. " — AEA President Andrew F. Morrill Education leaders pic- tured left to right take an online survey de- signed to gather data for improving teaching and learning condi- tions: TEA President Frances Banales, TUSD Superintendent Dr. John Pedicone, Habitat for Humanity Tucson Executive Director Michael McDonald, AEA President Andrew Morrill. BOTTOM: Howenstine journalism students. Photos by Brenda Alvarez strapped districts. We knew we could be of real assistance to Howenstine," says Frances Banales, president of the Tucson Education Association (TEA). "So we proceeded to leverage the resources and expertise of the na- tion's largest professional organization for school improvement efforts here in Tucson. In the process, we're providing real value to TUSD and making an important contribution to our community because PSC is member dues dollars at work. It comes at no cost to Howenstine or TUSD. It's a win-win for all." The 42 indicators KEYS tracks fall into four broad areas of school culture and operations: creating a culture of reflection and collaborative inquiry; making important decisions together; making continuous improvement second na- ture; and building partnerships and community support. "Research shows these characteristics are present in high-performing schools and are needed in struggling ones," said TUSD 12 Spring 2012 x AEA Advocate Superintendent Dr. John Pedicone. "This is a phenomenal oppor- tunity for Howenstine and TUSD. We're excited about the possibilities of PSC in Tucson and appreciate the value it brings, es- pecially in these tough economic times." KEYS is only part of PSC's intensive sup- port at Howenstine. The Campaign will work with and through the Arizona Education Association (AEA) and TEA to deliver on-site, on-line and on-paper technical assistance in the areas of teacher and staff quality and effectiveness, labor- management collabo- ration, school culture, and family and com- munity engagement. Howenstine was selected to be a part of PSC because of its dedicated staff, dy- namic new leadership and service-learning focus. The practice is praised by NEA and the education com- munities because it has been found to boost achievement, build leadership, and strengthen ties to the community. Association leaders are also hoping another benefit seen at some of the other 37 schools in 16 states that comprise the Campaign will take root in Tucson. "We're proud to say that not only is PSC helping to transform low-performing schools, we're also promoting a new model for educa- tion reform. PSC is based on collaboration. Here is an education agenda that puts students at the center," said AEA President Andrew F. Morrill. "All across the country, we're see- Continued on page 33