The heart of our work is the learning and teaching that occurs every day in our classrooms. The Bellingham School District Essential Learnings provide a focus for this work along with our State's Essential Academic Learning Requirements.

Teachers and administrators have developed a document that describes a commonly held set of seven classroom instructional strategies for powerful teaching and learning that will engage all students to achieve at higher levels. These Seven Essential Strategies for Powerful Teaching and Learning represent a shared understanding among staff and administrators. Professional Development centers on supporting all staff to understand the theory and practices associated with the seven essential strategies.

District and school strategic plans outline learning and teaching initiatives for the next few years. Teachers meet in Grade Level and Specialist Meetings to develop common understandings.

Assessment is essential to measure student learning and to modify our instructional program. The administration of district and state assessments provides data for the educational decision-making process.

A variety of programs and services assist all learners to be successful, including special education, Federal and Special Programs and Service Learning.

Professional development is based on the belief that staff members are learners who continually work to improve their performance in the classroom, and in support of classroom needs.

Teachers and students use technology regularly as part of the learning process. They are supported by materials and services through their libraries. Search the Video and Professional Library to make online reservations.