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Support for Every Student's Success

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Support for Every Student's Success

Our dedication to academic excellence and raising our student test scores remains a top priority. Recognizing the need to enhance our students’ academic journey and empower them to shape their educational paths, we are committed to driving meaningful change. In 2023 we introduced our Packer Pathways- A replacement of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years and Middle Years programs. The sunsetting of the PYP and MYP programs enabled SSPPS District Leaders to explore and implement curriculum in the Packer Pathways that better fits the needs of our students. With the changes implemented this school year, we are better equipped to: help students in need of additional academic support, keep students engaged in the classroom, and further challenge the students who require extra academic stimulation.

MULTI-TIERED SYSTEMS OF SUPPORT (MTSS)

South St. Paul Public Schools utilizes the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) Model to provide high-quality instruction and social-emotional support across all grade levels and schools. Using the MTSS model, our educators can quickly identify and respond to each student’s unique needs in both academics and behavior, which in turn will help them thrive. MTSS has three levels of support called “tiers” to help students get what they need for academic success.

  • Tier 1: High quality instruction for all students in the classroom through classroom subject lessons
  • Tier 2: Students who need extra help get small group support or targeted lessons to help them catch up or better understand the material
  • Tier 3: Students who need even more specialized instruction or one-on-one support- may include special education and other student support services

The school works with counselors and parents/guardians when a student is advised to enter Tier 2 or Tier 3 intervention services.

PERSONALIZED LEARNING

We know each student learns at their own pace, and we are committed to ensuring all learners have the support they need to succeed. Our intervention programs provide targeted reading and math support for students who need a little extra help. Through small group sessions, intervention teachers offer individualized attention, focusing on specific reading skills and math concepts that allows students to build confidence alongside peers with similar needs.

For students excelling in reading and math, we offer enriched opportunities through our Talent Development and Advanced Academic programs, which are designed to challenge advanced learners. You can read more about these exciting programs in the article on the right.

This personalized approach ensures that students receive the help they need while staying connected to their grade-level curriculum, creating a seamless learning experience that fosters both growth and inclusion.

Reading

STRENGTHENING LITERACY FOR LIFELONG SUCCESS

At SSPPS, we believe building strong reading skills at an early age is key to academic success. Over the past two years, our elementary teachers have been dedicated to enhancing reading instruction, and their hard work is paying off. Through the implementation of cutting-edge reading programs like UFLI and Wit & Wisdom, we’ve seen a notable 5.3% increase in student reading scores.

These programs, which align with Minnesota’s new READ Act, were already part of our district’s approach before the legislation passed. This proactive focus has positioned us ahead of the curve in ensuring our students develop the foundational skills they need to thrive in school and beyond.

In addition to these innovative programs, our educators dedicated their summer to completing CORE Learning training, as required by the READ Act. This intensive training equips teachers with the latest research-backed strategies to help all students reach their full potential.

Math

BUILDING A STRONG FOUNDATION IN MATH

SSPPS is committed to helping every student develop a deep understanding of math fundamentals. Our teaching staff has worked hard to update the math curriculum to align with Minnesota State Standards. At the elementary level, we’ve adopted the Math Expressions program, which combines traditional instruction with hands-on learning. This approach encourages students to explore math concepts through real-world problem solving and collaborative learning, helping them grasp not just the “how,” but the “why” behind math processes.

As students progress through our system, we provide targeted support to ensure they stay on track and feel confident in their math skills. In elementary school, students who need extra help participate in small group interventions and in the Middle School students are in a class that gives them a preview of grade-level lessons preparing them for their regular classroom lesson.

Science

A NEW SCIENCE SPECIALIST EXPERIENCE

This school year, our elementary students are experiencing the excitement of hands-on learning through our new Science Specialist class. Using the Mystery Science curriculum, students explore a wide range of topics, from animals and nature to the solar system and weather. Each lesson is designed to be interactive, engaging students in experiments and activities that encourage curiosity and discovery. What makes this even more meaningful is that the lessons align with Minnesota’s new Science Standards, rolled out this school year. This approach not only makes science enjoyable, but it also fosters creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking—skills essential for future academic success.

As we continue to prioritize science, our district is conducting a thorough review of the science curriculum for grades 6-12 during the 2024-25 school year. This review will ensure our science programs remain up-to-date with the latest standards and best practices, keeping pace with the rapidly evolving world of science. By strengthening our curriculum, we aim to equip students with the problem-solving and critical thinking skills they need to succeed in higher education and beyond.