CTL provides leadership training and teacher coaching for GEAR UP Kentucky

June 1, 2007

CTL will provide leadership training and teacher coaching for GEAR UP Kentucky, part of a national initiative administered in Kentucky by the Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE) to prepare underserved students for college.

CTL has worked with GEAR UP Kentucky since 2003, partnering with GEAR UP Kentucky staff to provide professional development and technical assistance to nearly 80 middle and high schools statewide, enabling them to create the conditions necessary to prepare more students for postsecondary education. CTL has designed and led institutes throughout Kentucky, giving schools a common language and deeper understanding of how GEAR UP works to build on existing school improvement efforts. Through on-site observations and professional development sessions, CTL has also helped teachers assess alignment with ACT College Readiness Standards, making it possible for schools to ensure that their students are on track for college.

CTL’s current work with GEAR UP Kentucky includes leadership and team-building training for teachers and school administrators in GEAR UP regions, emphasizing achievement, equity and high expectations; coaching in the use of standardized test data to develop effective school improvement plans; development of teaching strategies to meet learning goals for all students; site-based assistance with teaching techniques, including use of the arts, to engage all learners and deepen instruction in core subjects; and coaching to ensure rigorous instruction and boost student readiness in math.

GEAR UP Kentucky work at CTL is directed by Dr. Deborah Walker, President and COO, and involves CTL’s staff of expert teacher coaches. Walker notes, “GEAR UP has a clear mission of increasing the number of students prepared for college. It reflects Kentucky’s goals of increasing student learning and college going for all. We regard the work as significant because of its mission, and because our organization can have a significant impact on the foundation of college preparation: school culture and classroom practice.”

For more information, contact:
Dr. Deborah Walker
v: 502.895.9500 x328