Labeling life in a traditional public high school as being “fast paced” is an understatement. While we are all pushing in the same direction and working hard to create a school climate conducive to maximum student growth and development, it is easy to allow the trees to block our view of the forest.

As an opportunity to break from that pace, the NC New Schools Peer School Review (PSR) we hosted last month allowed us to step back, think about the “big picture” and evaluate our programs/practices and the direction our school is headed. The review forced us to block out distractions that typically occupy our attention and created a setting that allowed us to listen to an outsider’s perspective and feedback.

The review consisted of educators (principals and teachers) from both inside our county and from other school systems across NC coming to our school for the sole purpose of reviewing our classroom and school practices, giving us feedback and data that will enable us to grow and improve as a school. Going into the review we selected three key areas we desired meaningful feedback. The three areas consisted of “evidence of rigor,” “collaborative group work” and “meaningful formative assessment techniques.”

In the end we walked away with so much more than we ever anticipated. Not only did we receive helpful suggestions and ideas, but also direction in terms of where we might invest our time and attention in the future. The teachers that were observed during the review were very open-minded and eager to hear other’s thoughts and insights.

Aside from the obvious benefits of hosting a PSR, it also served as a form of validation for our school and our teachers. Hearing others praise the work we have dedicated our lives to is uplifting and motivating.

The day was a huge success and something I recommend for all schools.