Our vision for Balsam is to be a high-performing school. We understand that there is no silver bullet - no single thing that we can do to ensure high student performance. Every aspect of the teaching and learning process has to be attended to and empowered. Following are the Best Practices that are being adopted in Balsam:
Clear Vision and mission school-wide
The focus is on achieving a shared vision and role of stake holders in achieving the vision. The following documents provide clarity in developing values and provide direction to make mission a reality:
Effective Processes
Policy based management and administration is the key to achieve the vision that Balsam has. The following documents provide clarity to all stake holders in adopting firm and practical policies that pave the way for seamless and clear management:
Effective Leadership
Instructional Leaderships
Academic Coordinator, Annual Syllabi Plan, Lesson Plans, TLMs, Employees Allocation and Timetable, Kindergarten, Language, Science, Social Studies, Beyond Academics Coordinator, Sports, Visual & Performing Arts, ICT, Library, STEM, Work Education and Outbound Learning, SEWA and Community Outreach, Managing Teacher Performance and Professional Development, Compliance- School Regulations, Head of Operations.
Instructional Leaderships
School Leadership and Management, Parent Relationships, Infrastructure and Facility Management, Transport Management, Human Resource Management and Development.
Quality Instruction, grading practices, and monitoring
Curriculum, instruction and assessments are aligned with national standards to ensure student achievement Staff understands the role of classroom and national assessments, what the assessments measure, and how student work is evaluated.
Professional Learning Community
Ongoing professional development is established to support and build teaching skills that are aligned with the school vision and objectives. Following are planned:
Cultural competence and culturally responsive teaching
Education without culture is no education at all. Children must know their heritage, culture and their roots. With firm foundation, they can grow high and stand tall. Including following activities ensures meaningful and value based learning:
Family and community engagement in school
There is a sense that all have a responsibility to educate students, not just teachers and staff in Balsam Academy. Families, as well as organisations, social service agencies, and local colleges /universities - all play a vital role in this effort.