Michigan School District Uses Innovative Approaches to Education
Jodie Shell • September 30, 2020

Clintondale Community Schools  is a district in Clinton Township, Michigan serving over 3,000 students, roughly 72% of whom come from economically disadvantaged homes. Educators have been working hard to implement programs to help improve the quality of education for all of the district’s students.

Robbie Hall Parker Elementary is one of three elementary schools in the district. The school has always been focused on literacy. The challenge for its students was that often they were speaking their own dialect of English, or a cultural language. In many ways, Standard English was like a second language for them. Standard English is the language used in class and on tests, and the students needed to learn it in order to be successful in school. Educators realized they weren’t meeting all of the student’s needs in language learning, so they turned to GrapeSEED for help in 2011.

GrapeSEED Classroom at Robbie Hall Parker Elementary

Independent research  shows GrapeSEED helped Parker Elementary students bridge the gap between their home language and Standard English. After receiving GrapeSEED in their first year of a three-year study, 100% of the Kindergarten students tested scored at grade level or above as measured by the Developmental Reading Assessment (DRA) Text Level and Comprehension Rubric. This had never before happened in the history of the school! In addition, students excelled beyond the sight words and concepts about print national norms set by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) study for the U.S. Department of Education. Robbie Hall Parker Elementary continues to use GrapeSEED with great success – the children love it and the  teachers are thrilled with the results !

GrapeSEED Students Role Play “The Farmer and the Carrot” from Unit 5

Other programs Clintondale Community Schools has implemented have proven to make the district very successful in other areas as well, including reducing failure rates and instances of disciplinary action. Clintondale High School’s implementation of the “ flipped model ” of education, where students watch videos and lectures at home and use class time for collaboration on assignments and homework, is credited for a drop in failure rates from 30% to just 8%!

Another program, the  SSC after-school girls club , has united sixth-grade girls from Rainbow Elementary School in friendship, confidence and strength. Thanks to this program filled with world- and self-exploration activities, the girls had zero instances related to lack of discipline this past school year, down from 36 in the previous year.

The school district recently made headlines again, this time with its “Walk and Talk” program. The program was created “to encourage open communication and healthy lifestyles,” allowing parents to schedule a one hour walk around the high school track with the superintendent, principal or teachers to discuss concerns, ask questions and give feedback.

Congratulations to the students, parents and educators at Clintondale Community Schools for all of your hard work and innovation! You are setting a fine example for high-quality education for schools throughout the state and the entire country. We wish you the best of luck as you continue to improve education for the students of Michigan!

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In 2025, teacher appreciation has taken on an exciting new dimension. As we navigate through a rapidly evolving digital age, the role of teachers has become more crucial and multifaceted than ever before. Here’s why celebrating our educators this year is both special and unique: Digital Pioneers : Teachers today are not just educators but also pioneers of digital learning. They've seamlessly integrated technology into their classrooms, using tools like virtual reality and AI to create immersive learning experiences that captivate and engage students. Adaptability at its Best : The past few years have shown us the incredible adaptability of teachers. Whether transitioning from in-person to online classes or adopting hybrid teaching models, teachers have proven their ability to pivot and innovate, ensuring that learning continues uninterrupted. Champions of Personalized Learning : With the help of data-driven insights and educational technology, teachers are crafting personalized learning experiences. This approach caters to the unique needs of each student, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive at their own pace. Emotional Intelligence Leaders : Teachers today understand the importance of emotional intelligence in education. They are equipped to support the emotional and mental well-being of their students, creating a safe and nurturing space for learning. Creative Engagement : From gamified learning to interactive projects, teachers are continuously inventing new ways to make education fun and engaging. Their creativity inspires students to be curious and passionate about their subjects. As we look to the future, the role of teachers will continue to evolve, but one thing remains constant: their unwavering dedication to shaping young minds. In 2025, we celebrate not just their adaptability but also their commitment to fostering a brighter future for all. Teacher appreciation today is a testament to their invaluable contributions to society and the endless possibilities they unlock for future generations. At GrapeSEED, we are inspired by and appreciative of teachers who inspire, innovate, and ignite a love for learning! Are YOU ready to become a GrapeSEED teacher? Click here!
By Jodie Shell April 11, 2025
The role of an instructional coach in the multilingual language learner world is challenging and rewarding, requiring a unique set of skills and a deep commitment to fostering language acquisition among diverse learners. Often serving as the bridge between teachers and students, instructional coaches in this realm play a pivotal role in shaping how language education is delivered and experienced. Here's a closer look at the nuances of this impactful role: Supporting Diverse Learners One of the most rewarding aspects of being an ESL instructional coach is the opportunity to support a wide range of learners from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds. This diversity enriches the learning environment but also presents unique challenges. Coaches must be adept at understanding the specific needs and strengths of each student, tailoring strategies to enhance engagement and comprehension. Adapting Teaching Strategies Cultural context plays a critical role in how language is taught and learned. ESL instructional coaches must continuously adapt teaching strategies to align with the cultural nuances of their students. This involves integrating culturally relevant materials, respecting different learning styles, and being sensitive to the cultural references that may affect language comprehension and usage. Fostering Collaboration Collaboration is at the heart of an ESL instructional coach's work. Coaches collaborate with teachers to develop effective lesson plans, provide feedback on teaching practices, and introduce innovative instructional methods. By fostering a collaborative environment, coaches help create a supportive network that enhances professional growth and improves student outcomes. Continuous Professional Development  To stay effective, ESL instructional coaches must engage in continuous professional development. This includes attending workshops, participating in webinars, and staying abreast of the latest research in language acquisition and teaching methodologies. Professional development is crucial for coaches to refine their skills and introduce new teaching techniques that can benefit both teachers and students. Leveraging Technology The integration of technology in ESL instruction is a game-changer, and instructional coaches are at the forefront of this transformation. By leveraging tools such as language learning apps, virtual classrooms, and digital assessments, coaches can enhance the learning experience and provide more personalized support. Technology also allows for greater accessibility, enabling students to practice language skills outside the traditional classroom setting. Making a Lasting Impact Ultimately, the role of an ESL instructional coach is about making a lasting impact on the lives of students and educators. Coaches help unlock the potential of students by equipping them with the language skills needed to succeed in a globalized world. They also empower teachers with the tools and confidence to deliver effective ESL instruction. In conclusion, being an instructional coach in the ESL world is a dynamic and fulfilling career that requires a blend of empathy, adaptability, and expertise. By embracing these nuances, instructional coaches can contribute significantly to the field of language education, paving the way for a more inclusive and effective learning environment. Are you an instructional coach who is interested in learning about the impact that GrapeSEED could make on your teachers and students? Come partner with us! Just click here to get started.
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Doing more research on Language Acquisition? The stages of Language Acquisition and theories / best practices? GrapeSEED provides insights and tips on the topic.
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