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MISSION
Rhode Island ASCD’s mission is to improve the quality
of learning, teaching and leading for the success of all
learners. We are a diverse community of educators
acting as a dynamic force for educational excellence.
VISION
Rhode Island ASCD is the leading source for professional
learning in Rhode Island. Its exemplary programs, services,
and partnerships influence policies and practices for the
benefit of the Rhode Island educational community and
the subsequent success of students. |
Early Years
The Rhode Island ASCD story began in 1986-1987, when a group of educators involved in professional development for school leaders began a discussion about the materials being used in their training and their connection to ASCD. The conversation focused on the possibility of re-affiliating with ASCD since the Rhode Island affiliate had been inactive. Under a grant provided by ASCD, a core group met with Diane Berreth to outline the process for re-affiliation and develop a strategic plan. A Board of Directors was {Retreat } established and recruitment of membership began in 1987 when Ralph Jasparro became the first Executive Director. In that year, the organization’s first conference featured Fenwick English. Professional development during those early years was focused upon instruction and literacy and was delivered via two conferences a year. High quality programming produced an increase in membership and RIASCD was on its way to becoming the “sought after” organization for professional development in Rhode Island. It was also during that period of time that the lighthouse was selected as the official logo for the organization, fitting in with the state’s proximity to the ocean as well as the obvious metaphor for enlightenment.
A Changing Rhode Island
As the 1990’s approached, superintendents and assistant superintendents continued to make up the leadership of RIASCD. By the mid-90’s, however, the demographics of the
governance of the organization began to change as principals and teachers were elected to the Board. Thomas Larrabee became the first principal to be elected president in 1995. Programmatic activities continued to dominate the landscape of RIASCD with a goal of enhancing professional development in the area of instructional pedagogy aimed at {Board} practitioners. In 1996, RIASCD collaborated for the first time with the other New
England affiliates to organize the Northeast Regional ASCD Affiliate Conference held in Boston. RIASCD’s approach to programs and products in the mid to late ‘90’s was heralded by Summer Institutes and workshops that sustained themes over time and focused on Understanding by Design and the brain research. Also during the 1990’s, RIASCD
revamped its newsletter to its membership and the educational community. This newsletter was recognized by ASCD worldwide with the “The Little Engine That Could Award.”
21st Century Education
The approach of the new millennium saw RIASCD move in the direction of furthering its influence through collaborations and co-sponsorships of activities and institutes with professional organizations such as the Rhode Island Department of Education, the Rhode Island Middle Level Educators, the Rhode Island Social Studies Association, the Rhode Island School Superintendents’ Association, the Rhode Island Association of School {Capitol} Principals and the Rhode Island institutions of higher education. By mid-2000, the RIASCD submitted and received an influence grant from ASCD to study the closing of the achievement gap in Rhode Island. This study brought major educational and governmental stakeholders together to hear the preliminary findings. The Rhode Island Department of Education is partnering with RIASCD this year to replicate the study for English Language Learners. It was also during the mid-2000’s that RIASCD was recognized by ASCD with a “Special Projects Grant” to publish its first journal entitled The Leading Edge, which was published and distributed in 2005. An Affiliate Excellence Award for Programming and Influence, and the 2006 Best Practices Award for Programs, Products, and Services for the “Book Gala” have also been presented to RIASCD. In the first decade of 2000, a special conference for pre-service teachers was designed and delivered as a way of giving back to the educational community from RIASCD. Rhode Island ASCD leaders have increased involvement with ASCD worldwide. Affiliate leaders have served or are serving on ASCD committees such as the Constituent Relations Committee under the former ASCD governance structure; membership on and co-chair of the Position Development Team; membership on the Position Action Team; the Leadership Council Panel; the Legislative Agenda Committee; and appointment to the High School Reform Task Force. Now as ASCD has revised its mission, so too is RIASCD moving from an affiliate that concentrates on specific programs and products to an intentional look at broader services for its membership which focus on the Whole Child. The organization has sought to actively become a stronger voice for learning and teaching in Rhode Island through its partnerships and collaborations.
From Success to Significance
{Presentation} In Spring 2007, RIASCD celebrated its 20th anniversary with a special reception at Johnson and Wales University. In conjunction with this event, attendees were asked to contribute a children’s book. The donated books (over a thousand) were then presented to the Urban League of RI for family literacy projects. This endeavor was a huge success and the books were warmly received by the Director of that organization. A special feature of the gala was a presentation by renowned storyteller Len Cabral on the importance of reading. RIASCD received congratulatory citations from ASCD Executive Director, Dr. Gene Carter, RI Board of Regents, and the Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, in recognition of the 20 years of accomplishments of the Affiliate. As a volunteer organization, RIASCD has moved to a position of prominence and respect in Rhode Island.
Summary of Our Work
To learn more about the organizations committees and how we have supported the community, please feel free to review our Executive Summary of the Beacon Light: Lighting the Ways to Best Practice resource.
