Welcome to the CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION DEPARTMENT
Our Curriculum and Instruction Department is dedicated to ensuring that every student receives a high-quality education that prepares them for success in college, career, and life. We are committed to providing rigorous, standards-aligned curriculum, fostering innovative instructional practices, leveraging technology effectively, and supporting the professional growth of educators to meet the diverse needs of our students.
Our Mission
Our mission is to design and implement a comprehensive and equitable curriculum that promotes academic excellence, critical thinking, creativity, and lifelong learning. We strive to empower educators with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to deliver engaging and effective instruction that inspires a love of learning and prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
We work collaboratively with educators, administrators, and stakeholders to develop and refine curriculum documents that are aligned with state standards, district goals, and research-based best practices. Our curriculum reflects the diverse needs and interests of our student population and incorporates opportunities for differentiation, enrichment, and personalized learning.
We provide ongoing support and professional development opportunities to educators to enhance their instructional practices and implement the curriculum effectively. Through workshops, seminars, coaching, a new teacher mentoring program and collaborative planning sessions, we empower educators to incorporate evidence-based strategies, technology integration, and culturally responsive teaching practices into their instruction.
We recognize the transformative potential of technology in enhancing teaching and learning experiences. Our department is dedicated to fostering innovation and creativity through the effective integration of technology into the curriculum. We provide educators with training and support in utilizing educational technology tools, digital resources, and online learning platforms to enhance student engagement, facilitate personalized learning experiences, and prepare students for success in a digital world.
We oversee a variety of specialized programs and initiatives designed to meet the unique needs of specific student populations, including gifted and talented education, English language learners, special education, and career and technical education. We collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that these programs are integrated into the broader curriculum and aligned with district goals.
We utilize a variety of assessment tools and data analysis techniques to monitor student progress, identify areas of strength and growth, and inform instructional decision-making. By analyzing data at the classroom, school, and district levels, we ensure that our curriculum is responsive to the needs of all students and continuously improving.
- i-Ready Support
- ACT Test Prep
- Horizon
- Assessment Calendar
We believe that parents and the community are essential partners in the education of our students. We strive to foster open communication, collaboration, and partnership with parents, families, and community members to support student learning and achievement.
We are here to support you in your educational journey. If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we can continue to strive for excellence and ensure that every student reaches their full potential.
Welcome to the Curriculum and Instruction Department of Carlinville CUSD#1, where learning knows no limits, and innovation is embraced.
Meet The Team
Elise Schwartz
Elise has a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and Master's and Specialist's Degrees in Educational Administration with the Superintendent's Endorsement, all from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. Elise taught in her hometown of Gillespie, then she was the Gillespie Middle School Principal for 3 years. Here at CUSD #1, Elise served as a building Principal for 20 years at every elementary building and combination, including North and South Schools, Early Childhood Center and Intermediate Schools, Primary and Intermediate Schools and finally the Primary School when it became a K-3 center. Elise considers the Primary School students and staff receiving the National Blue Ribbon Schools Award in 2011 as a career highlight. In addition, she and her staff brought many new programs and curriculum to the elementary schools through grants and seeking professional development. Elise is currently the Director of Curriculum and Instruction, where in addition to working on curriculum, assessments and special programs, she spends time seeking new grants, working with existing grants, and managing professional development for the District. Elise is married and has two grown children who are both Carlinville High School graduates. Elise's first passion is her family. In her free time, she loves to run, read, cook, watch a great Netflix series and spend as much time as possible boating at Lake of the Ozarks.