Prior to implementing the partnership, the university team
attempted to collaborate with the K–5 school to determine the
need for change in terms of existing strengths, areas for improvement,
and ongoing assessment. Because the K–5 teachers lacked
the experience to identify areas for improvement, a plan was created
by the university mentors and dean emeritus to improve the
teaching and learning process. This plan included curriculum
development, training to enhance instruction, and ongoing student
assessment. University mentors were assigned, one to each K–5
teacher. Mentors visited classrooms weekly to observe or to model
teaching strategies, participated in the K–5 weekly teacher meetings,
and provided professional development workshops. Inservice
education and workshops were developed for parents as
well as teachers. The dean emeritus served as principal for 2.5 years