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What our partners say…

Screen Shot 2015-10-01 at 2.32.48 PMNIFDI is happy to congratulate the Core Knowledge® Charter School (CKCS) on the occasion of their 20th anniversary as a public charter school serving kindergarten through eighth grade. Located in Verona, Wisconsin CKCS is the longest running and most successful implementation of DI in the state. Chris Uelmen, K-8 Curriculum Coordinator/DI Coach, has been the sole onsite coordinator since the school was granted its charter in 1996. When asked about factors that have contributed to the success of the school, she pointed to two things; DI and Core Knowledge are specifically listed in their charter as the instructional programs to be used; and high teacher retention. Of the 12 elementary classroom teachers on staff, 5 are 20-year veterans of DI and 9 of the 12 elementary teachers have been teaching at CKCS for at least 10 years. Chris states, "Once you understand the (DI) theory behind why you do what you do, it enhances longevity!"

The school utilizes Reading Mastery Signature Edition (Reading and Language strands), Connecting Math Concepts Comprehensive Edition in grades K-5. As measured by the Wisconsin State Report Card, CKCS students rated 80% (exceeds expectations) compared to a state level of 67.1%. Individual subject test results report a similar level of performance. Classrooms are described as high-energy and engaging for all students. Each year there is a waiting list, which unfortunately doesn't get cleared due to school size and the popularity of the school. There is hope that the district will allow them to expand in both enrollment and building space so they can serve more students in this Madison suburb.

A testimony to the impression the school has made on the approximately 900 students that have gone through the school is that this year an alum returned to CKCS as a first grade and resource teacher.

A celebration is planned for January 16, 2016. There will be alumni speakers, presentation of the time capsule, a silent auction and a goal of raising funds for an endowment. NIFDI wishes the staff and students at Core Knowledge® Charter School a happy anniversary and best wishes for continued success! If you would like to offer your congratulations, send an email to Principal Rick Kisting at Rick.Kisting@verona.k12.wi.us 

Implementing Direct Instruction Successfully

When implemented fully, Direct Instruction (DI) is unparalleled in its ability to improve student performance and enhance students’ self-esteem. In order to implement DI effectively, much more is required than simply purchasing instructional materials. The following two-part tutorial guides administrators, teachers, and coaches through the key features of a successful DI implementation. Part I provides an overview of the steps schools need to take in preparation for a DI implementation before school starts, while Part II provides an overview of the steps schools need to take after school has started.

IMPORTANT: This tutorial is an intensive video series comprised of 18 segments, each followed by a series of questions. Users should allow approximately three hours to watch the videos and complete the questions. NIFDI recognizes the high demand for time placed on school officials and, for this reason, has structured the tutorial so users may stop at any time and later resume where they left off.

Enroll in the tutorial here


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New to Direct Instruction? Watch the Introduction to Direct Instruction Video Series before taking the online tutorial.

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