The Beginning

Apri 30, 2018

** Much of the information in this blog post is credited to Kurtis and Lorna Hewson of Jigsaw Learning.  Their tireless commitment to improving quality learning for all students is a vision they are dedicated to.  I would like to thank Kurtis and Lorna for providing the inspiration and contagious enthusiasm for this process.

After returning from the Collaborative Response Model Conference (CRM) in Edmonton, I feel rejuvenated and excited to press forward on our journey.  
Elmer Elson Elementary (EEE) started our CRM journey about 6 years ago.  It is a work in progress but has improved over the years.  

So what is the CRM model?

The CRM model “helps schools make sure that all students are engaged learners and that no child slips through the cracks” (Hewson, 2015). The CRM process is not a substitute for quality teaching, but provides a means for staff to collaborate and provide quality strategies, accommodations, and interventions as needed to ensure that every child who may be a concern to staff has their needs addressed to support their learning.

Through the establishment of a Collaborative Response Model, schools and districts can ensure that structures and processes are in place to support inclusive learning environments while informed by research and practices related to:

• Professional Learning Communities
• Response to Intervention
• Universal Design for Learning
• Differentiated Instruction
• Formative Assessment

Jigsaw Learning

EEE  has worked alongside Kurtis and Lorna Hewson, founders of Jigsaw Learning, this past year.  We have discussed the importance of providing collaborative time with colleagues to discuss and enhance teaching practices to reach all students.  

We are currently working on developing our own pyramid of interventions in literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional behaviors.

Jigsaw Learning 4 Tier Intervention Pyramid example

I hope you enjoy following our journey with the CRM.

Tammy Davis

Grade Three Teacher

Elmer Elson Elementary