Walton Middle School science teacher Mrs. Greer Harvell welcomed students back to school with a fun, get-to-know-your-teacher lesson that combined evidence-based writing and inquiry skills.  Throughout the year, science students will investigate science topics through literacy and hands-on practice using the Claim-Evidence-Reasoning strategy (CER).  Mrs. Harvell introduced the CER approach on the second day of school by allowing students an opportunity to get to know her.  Mrs. Harvell filled a table at the front of her classroom with many miscellaneous personal objects and asked students to come up, examine the objects, and draft a claim about who their teacher is based on the evidence before them.  After drafting individual claims, students collaborated with shoulder partners, then shared their ideas with the class, supporting their thoughts with evidence and reasoning.  Not only did the activity give students a chance to learn more about their teacher, but it also introduced them to a powerful evidence-based inquiry strategy for successful science learning.  Submitted by Kristen Nelson

FHS AP Psychology students learn about important contributors in psychology through a "speed dating" simulation.  

Students assumed the role of a famous psychologist or psychiatrist for the class period. They were given 1 minute to introduce themselves to a classmate by giving a brief biographical sketch as well as highlighting the important contributions and school of thought. This was done in a ‘speed dating’ format where they rotated partners every minute. Students could bring visuals, props or dress like their person to help their classmates learn about the psychologist.

Submitted by Vanessa Bump/Patty Woodard

Dr. Adinolfi, NW Regional VPK Facilitator worked with Walton County District VPK Teachers and Educational Support Personnel in implementing "The Florida Early Learning and Developmental Standards for VPK Students."
Submitted by Tracey Dickey