Student Growth with Reading Apprenticeship: Aligning Leadership, Literacy Instruction, and Professional Learning Rich Township, IL - Student Growth | Rich Township High School District 227, IL Rich Township Increasing Literacy Ninth graders at Rich Township High School District 227, IL (“RTHS”) nearly doubled their growth in reading achievement in 2023-2024. This gain took place in a community that experienced a lot of change in the early 2020s. RTHS leaders sought a way to bring teachers, administrators, staff and students together to improve student achievement through a focus on community and a common vision of success. As part of this work, they embarked on a multi-year implementation of Reading Apprenticeship and coaching with WestEd. Located in Cook County, south of Chicago, RTHS’s student population is predominantly African American and the district serves over 2,300 high school students. RTHS has been experiencing many of the challenges shared by districts all over the country since the pandemic – lower student engagement, consolidation of schools due to low attendance, students entering high school with lower proficiency in core academic subjects, and less use of collaborative and dialogue-driven teaching strategies in the classroom. To address these challenges, the RTHS set goals focused on student learning, as well as for teacher and administrator professional growth. RTHS Goals and Teacher/Admin Supports Improve students’ literacy performance and engagement in school Provide teachers and administrators shared support for three years to create a professional, positive culture for both faculty and students Engage leadership in instructional change and professional learning alongside teachers Identify specific measurable goals and related measures shared district-wide Getting Started with Reading Apprenticeship Teachers and principals work together Once RTHS determined that Reading Apprenticeship was a match for their district’s teacher professional learning and student learning goals, they embarked on a multi-year plan with WestEd to implement Reading Apprenticeship and engage in ongoing support for teacher learning and student growth. RTHS leaders identified ninth grade student achievement growth as a keystone to district-wide improvement and engaged all 100+ ninth-grade teachers and three high school leaders in professional learning. They supported their teachers to make positive, evidence-based changes in instruction using Reading Apprenticeship; as most districts do, they engaged in other interventions (one for math, one for writing, etc), but their leaders used Reading Apprenticeship to build coherence. Inclusive Planning and Support for Literacy Learning Across Disciplines and Roles Dr. Gallick points out that involving administrators, principals, and teachers together in the work has been key to their positive changes, as has been the consistent support from WestEd’s facilitators Laurie Erby and Dr. Tinaya York. These Reading Apprenticeship experts work with district leaders through the planning, adapting implementation and improvement cycles as teachers integrate practices into their existing schedules and curriculum, while still staying true to the design principles that have assured Reading Apprenticeship’s success in efficacy studies. “Having teachers and administrators involved throughout was key. They all really loved the work and being involved in designing learning opportunities in ways they hadn’t before.” Asst. Supt. Gallick School-Year Support and Well-Paced Learning Across all Subjects Following the initial Reading Apprenticeship professional learning sessions, RTHS teachers began integrating Reading Apprenticeship into their classrooms and they received support from WestEd’s expert Reading Apprenticeship coaches during the school year, and, importantly, reserved planning time. “WestEd would come out for a coaching visit, and we would all circle up and plan those two days together, so it really empowered and supported the principals and teachers.” RTHS Administrator One of Reading Apprenticeship’s norms is “Go slow at the beginning in order to go fast over the long run.” Gallick says this was in evidence – that teachers expressed appreciation for not being rushed. He and his administrator colleagues noted that more than 80% of teachers surveyed by the district about the professional learning said it was valuable – this is well above their usual trend with satisfaction rates for professional learning experiences. Improved Student Growth – in Class and on Assessments RTHS teachers report that their students’ use of academic language in class has improved, as has their ability to have more substantive, text-based dialogue in class. This change is also showing up in their reading and writing. The ninth-grade students have demonstrated exceptional growth, with practically ‘doubling their reading levels’ and achieving a 17% increase in reading and writing SAT 9 scores. This achievement surpasses that of any other grade level. Teachers have also observed a significant shift in student persistence and problem solving when facing difficult texts. As George Vlahakis, a social studies teacher, noted, I’ve seen the students much more confident, attacking texts they find ‘boring’… in all of their classes, not just mine…. They’re able to grapple and struggle; they’re okay with it and thus much more advanced than they used to be.” Social studies teacher, Vlahakis Leadership Stays the Course In line with much of the Reading Apprenticeship team’s experience, the success of the ninth-grade teachers created curiosity and excitement in their colleagues the following school year. “We are especially excited because many of the 10th grade students will be familiar with the literacy routines, thus will be starting with some of these strategies already in hand because of their 2023-4 experience with Reading Apprenticeship last year….“We are especially excited because many of the tenth-grade students will be starting with some of these strategies already in hand. We plan to stay with our three-year commitment … This was important to our principals.” Asst. Supt. Gallick So, in 2024-25 RTHS added both depth and breadth to its ongoing professional learning work. Their work includes: 9th grade teachers continue to engage with Reading Apprenticeship coaching support 10th grade teachers began Reading Apprenticeship Essentials School leadership teams engage in “Leading for Literacy” which is Reading Apprenticeship’s online and/or two-day learning experience leaders Based on their 2023-2024 success, Rich Township District 227 set goals for the future aligned with these strategies: Rich Township graph showing benchmarking success RTHS leaders, despite the many urgent issues needing their attention, were willing to make the time to assess teacher and student needs, identify solutions, articulate goals, and engage with every level of their school and community. Beyond meeting their own needs, RTHS leaders are willing to be a part of the larger education vision of our country and have made time to speak with leaders in their region, education news outlets like EdWeek, and our WestEd staff. Thank you RTHS! Everyone can meet RTHS leader Kevin Gallick and other educators in a December 4 webinar (recording will be made available on our website). Generate positive im

Student Growth with Reading Apprenticeship: Aligning Leadership, Literacy Instruction, and Professional Learning

November 22, 2024
Ninth graders at Rich Township High School District 227, IL (“RTHS”) nearly doubled their growth in reading achievement in 2023-2024. This gain took place in a community that expe...
READ MORE >
424 Rich Township High School Students Receive On-Site College Acceptance to Tougaloo College Rich Township High School District 227 is thrilled to announce that an incredible 424 students received on-site college acceptance to Tougaloo College during a special one-day event held at the Fine Arts and Communications (FAC) and STEM campuses. For many of these students, this marks their very first college acceptance, a monumental step toward a bright future. Tougaloo College representatives, Paul Scott, Director of Admissions and Recruitment, and Alma Scott, Enrollment Officer, were on hand to personally congratulate students and celebrate their achievements. At the STEM campus, 96 students received acceptance letters, while an impressive 230 students were admitted at the FAC campus. Jessica Watson, Post-Secondary Coordinator, reflected on the impact of the event: "It’s inspiring to see so many of our students seize this incredible opportunity. For many, this is the beginning of a life-changing journey. We are proud of their achievements and grateful to Tougaloo College for their partnership and support." The event exemplifies the district’s dedication to student success, ensuring every scholar has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

424 Rich Township High School Students Receive On-Site College Acceptance to Tougaloo College

November 18, 2024
On Thursday, November 14, 2024, Rich Township High School District 227 is thrilled to announce that an incredible 424 students received on-site college acceptance to Tougaloo Colle...
READ MORE >
Congratulations to the PACK Team from Rich Township High School for their outstanding performance at the prestigious PACK EXPO held at McCormick Place in Chicago! The team’s innovative approach and exceptional marketing and sales strategies earned them a well-deserved $2,500 prize, placing them among the top six finalists in the competition.

Rich Township High School PACK Team Shines at PACK EXPO, Wins $2,500 and Draws Industry Attention

November 8, 2024
Congratulations to the PACK Team from Rich Township High School for their outstanding performance at the prestigious PACK EXPO held at McCormick Place in Chicago! The team’s innov...
READ MORE >
Rich Township High School District's Introduction to Teaching Students Dive Into School Operations

Rich Township High School District's Introduction to Teaching Students Dive Into School Operations

November 7, 2024
Dual Credit Introduction to Teaching – This semester, students enrolled in Rich Township High School District’s Introduction to Teaching class have embarked on an immersive jour...
READ MORE >
Rich Township High School District 227 is dedicated to empowering every student with the literacy skills they need across all subjects. By using metacognitive tools, students not only strengthen their reading comprehension but also learn to think critically about texts in diverse content areas. Through our district’s partnership with WestEd's Reading Apprenticeship program, teachers are integrating literacy into their subject expertise, helping students become more confident, engaged readers. This whole-school approach is building a foundation for lifelong learning by ensuring that every teacher has the tools to support reading growth. To learn more about this transformative approach, read the full story on Education Week https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/what-happens-when-every-teacher-in-a-school-has-the-tools-to-improve-reading/2024/10

Empowering Literacy Across All Subjects at Rich Township High School District 227

October 28, 2024
Rich Township High School District 227 is dedicated to empowering every student with the literacy skills they need across all subjects. By using metacognitive tools, students not ...
READ MORE >
October 27, 2024, five students with a passion for baking and pastry joined forces with C*CAP at the prestigious Drake Hotel. Led by acclaimed pastry Chef Robin Johnson, they helped create a life-sized gingerbread castle, learning advanced techniques such as dough rolling, shape cutting, and butter rose piping. The students, under the expert instruction of District 227’s very own Chef Darius Bright and Chef Keith Morris, gained invaluable experience in both the preparation and execution of high-profile pastry projects.

RICH TOWNSHIP STUDENTS SHINE IN CULINARY EVENTS HOSTED BY TOP INDUSTRY PARTNERS

October 28, 2024
Rich Township High School District 227 is proud to highlight two recent opportunities that showcased the talents and dedication of our students in the culinary arts. Through partne...
READ MORE >
U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, along with two other Illinois Democratic delegates, toured the halls of Rich Township High School on Thursday to view the school’s commercial-grade kitchen and food pantry. “It makes me very, very proud to represent this area,” Kelly remarked. “Many years ago I lived in this area, the town next door. My kids graduated from the school system. I’m very proud to see the school doing things like this. It’s very meaningful.” Kelly was joined by state Rep. Debbie Meyers-Martin and Matteson Mayor Sheila Chalmers-Currin on the tour, which took place just days before the Democratic National Convention opens Monday in Chicago. Cook County Commissioner Monica Gordon and Richton Park Mayor Rick Reinbold were also in attendance. The Fine Arts and Communication Campus at 5000 Sauk Trail has seen substantial renovations in recent years, creating “a space that really takes care of the community,” according to District 227 Superintendent Johnnie Thomas. Additional renovations include a television broadcasting production area, an athletic director’s office equipped with medical facilities for injury treatment, a large weight room, a gym featuring a 200-meter indoor track, and an armory for the naval cadet program. “The more attention and focus we can put to making sure that we are funded in a supportive way, and that we have the support of the community, allows for us to do great ideas,” Thomas said. “A lot of times, when people hear ‘no’ constantly, it just stifles creativity.”

Rep. Robin Kelly and Illinois Delegates Tour Renovated Rich Township High School, Highlight Community Impac

August 16, 2024
U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, along with two other Illinois Democratic delegates, toured the halls of Rich Township High School on Thursday to view the school’s commercial-grade kitchen ...
READ MORE >
Two Rich Township Scholars Experience Oxford University this Summer Rich Township High School District 227 proudly announces that two of its exceptional students, Anuoluwapo Salami and Cheri Turner, had the unique opportunity to attend a prestigious summer program at Oxford University in the United Kingdom. The program provided these scholars with a platform to explore their academic passions in world-class settings, surrounded by peers and mentors from around the globe. Anuoluwapo Salami, a senior at Rich Township High School, focused on Curing Medicine and Disease during her time at Oxford. Her studies explored the latest advancements in medical research, focusing on innovative treatments and approaches to combating various diseases. Anuoluwapo’s dedication to learning and her passion for the medical field have driven her to seize this opportunity, gaining invaluable insights into the future of medicine. Cheri Turner, a sophomore at Rich Township High School, immersed herself in Business and Entrepreneurship. During the program, Cheri learned from distinguished business leaders, explored cutting-edge concepts in innovation, and developed entrepreneurial strategies. Her time at Oxford allowed her to enhance her understanding of global business practices and entrepreneurial leadership. “This opportunity to study at Oxford University is a testament to the commitment, resilience, and ambition of both Anuoluwapo and Cheri,” said Dr. Johnnie Thomas, Superintendent of Rich Township High School District 227. “Their experiences will undoubtedly shape their future endeavors, and we are incredibly proud to see our students represented at such a prestigious institution.” Rich Township High School District 227 remains committed to providing opportunities that encourage academic excellence and global exposure. These experiences empower students like Anuoluwapo and Cheri to push the boundaries of their knowledge and gain perspectives that will influence their future academic and professional pursuits.

Two Rich Township Scholars Experience Oxford University this Summer

August 9, 2024
Rich Township High School District 227 proudly announces that two of its exceptional students, Anuoluwapo Salami and Cheri Turner, had the unique opportunity to attend a prestigiou...
READ MORE >
NSPRA

Rich Township High School received seven accolades from NSPRA

July 2, 2024
The National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) has recently announced its annual Publications and Digital Media Excellence Awards. These awards aim to recognize outstand...
READ MORE >
Jaxon Hainey, Board Secretary Tiffany Taylor, Kamari Taylor Garrett, Dr. Johnnie Thomas

Rich Township Awards Scholarships to Outstanding Seniors from Rich Township HS

June 24, 2024
Rich Township High School is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s Rich Township Scholarship: Jaxon Hainey of the Fine Arts and Communication campus and Kamari Taylor Gar...
READ MORE >
J Mitchell

Rich Township High School Alumni Spotlight: Jeremiah Mitchell

May 28, 2024
Rich Township High School is proud to spotlight Jeremiah Mitchell, a remarkable alumnus from the class of May 2014, formerly known as Mr. Olympian, quarterback, and linebacker at o...
READ MORE >
G. Taylor

Rich Township High School Alumni Spotlight: Gabriel Taylor

May 9, 2024
Rich Township High School is proud to celebrate the achievements of one of our exceptional alumni, Gabriel Taylor, who graduated in May 2021. Thanks to his dedication and the found...
READ MORE >
Future Ready

Rich Township High School Celebrates Academic Excellence at Future Ready Event

May 8, 2024
On April 23, 2024, Rich Township High School proudly hosted the annual Future Ready event at the Tinley Park Convention Center. The event recognized the remarkable achievements of ...
READ MORE >
Scholarship Recipients

United College Fund, Superintendents’ Commission and Tougaloo College Collaborate to Award 88 College Scholarships to Chicago-Area Students.

March 26, 2024
TINLEY PARK, IL—March 25, 2024—A total of eighty-eight students received college scholarships from a partnership of Chicago- area school superintendents, the United Negro College ...
READ MORE >
Black History Month Showcase

Celebrating Excellence: 5th Annual Black History Month Showcase Triumph

February 8, 2024
On Tuesday, February 6th, the community came together to honor and celebrate Black History Month in a vibrant showcase that marked its fifth anniversary. This year’s event was a r...
READ MORE >
1st Semester Achievements

Rich Township High School District Celebrates Remarkable Achievements in the First Semester of the 2023-2024 Academic Year

January 23, 2024
Rich Township, IL – Rich Township High School District 227 proudly announces significant accomplishments by its students and staff in the first semester of the 2023-2024 academic ...
READ MORE >
2nd Annual UNCF Gala

Chicago Area School Superintendents and UNCF Host Successful Gala, Raising Over $400,000 in Scholarship Funds for Local Students

January 23, 2024
In a remarkable display of collaboration and commitment to education, superintendents from the Chicago area joined forces with the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) to host the 2 n...
READ MORE >
Susan Lundgren

Achieving Excellence: Susan Lundgren's Journey to National Board Certification in Social Studies-History

December 21, 2023
Susan Lundgren's journey to earning her National Board Certification in Social Studies-History for Adolescence and Young Adulthood is a testament to her dedication and expertise i...
READ MORE >
Raptor Reflection with Betsy Williams

Raptor Reflections with Dr. Thomas: Episode 1

November 21, 2023
Betsy Williams Celebrates Over 30 Years of Exceptional Service at Rich Township High School District 227 (RTHS) The Rich Township High School District 227 (RTHS) takes great pr...
READ MORE >
Honor Roll

NEARLY HALF OF RICH TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ATTAIN HONOR ROLL STATUS

November 9, 2023
Rich Township High School is celebrating a remarkable achievement as it announces that an impressive 40% of its student body of 2,404 has reached honor roll status in the first qu...
READ MORE >