Constructing A Student-Centered Learning Environment (CASCLE) 

CASCLE is a strategic planning process for program improvement, and a professional development model that began at West Nottingham Academy in the fall of 2003.  The CASCLE process empowers faculty to become involved in defining and bringing to life the core values of WNA through reflective examination of all that we do.

Learning environment – An environment where every interaction between a student and an adult is a learning opportunity with value.

Student-centered – A student’s needs are the driving force behind the creation of all activities that make up the learning environment.

CASCLE is a strategic planning process in that it seeks to establish a student-centered learning environment that aligns all aspects of program with our core values and mission. CASCLE is a professional development model because it is centered on four “best practice” programmatic and professional development tools.  

7 Habits of Highly Effective People™  provides faculty a means to achieve lasting success both personally and professionally and a common language to talk about communication and collaboration.  The training teaches us how to change our habits so that we can help students change their habits.

Understanding by Design™ (UBD) is the best curricular design tool in the marketplace, and it supports both backwards planning and differentiated Instruction.

Backwards Planning is a process that begins with overarching goal construction and an immediate concern with assessment that integrates with both UBD and 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

Differentiated Instruction provides teachers with the skills and techniques they need to work with a range of academic abilities and learning styles within the classroom.

CASCLE is a new approach to strategic planning.  It dovetails with and supports the more traditional strategic “fiscal and physical” strategic planning process by providing a model for ongoing program growth and development while ensuring programmatic congruence with the mission and values of the institution.  

The actual work of program development is handled by Curriculum Workgroups who in turn utilize all resources available within the school.  Work Groups are like think tanks that constantly try to integrate the bigger picture with the daily work of the institution.  Each workgroup focuses on one of the major intersections between the lives of students and the Academy.  The Academic Curriculum Workgroup, working in partnership with department chairs and the Academic Excellence Committee, has as its charge, the oversight of all courses and programs that occur during the academic day.  The Campus Curriculum Workgroup focuses on the community life of all students including residential life, day student life, social activities, and student leadership.