Cross Case Features: Context

Montivew High School: State Context

For some time, the state standards have been undergoing development and review. Montview teachers have a fair amount of autonomy in how they address the state standards. For example, English teachers have the option to choose Asian literature to address the development of skills specified in the standards. Changes in the state history standards have expanded coverage beyond a Euro-centered focus to an international focus that includes Asia.

The state requires teacher re-certification every five years. Teachers say that this requirement keeps them on the lookout for relevant professional development offerings. The NCTA seminars appealed to teachers at Montview High School because they addressed both the professional development requirement and the new content expectations in the standards.