From their website, C.L.A.S.S. exists to:

? Translate brain research into practical classroom application
? Provide research-based techniques that drive successful learning
? Prepare current and future educators to become exemplary practitioners
? Create a philosophical foundation in the school community that empowers the growth of students in becoming productive contributors in society

C.L.A.S.S., Connecting Learning Assures Successful Students, is a comprehensive curriculum model and philosophy. The C.L.A.S.S. Model provides a philosophy of teaching and learning, standard-based curriculum development, and research-based teaching strategies based upon the constructs of brain-based learning.

Even though I am part of the presentation staff, I always come away learning tons for the participants and other C.L.A.S.S. staff.   This year I helped in the curriculum strand helping teachers develop year-long plans based on mapping their academic standards.  I also shared some sessions on Literacy, and how the C.L.A.S.S. model works with the library media program.  Summer Institute is always just a positive week to rejuvenate and think about how we can set-up our schools, classrooms, and library media centers to be a successful learning experience for students.  Our entire district has adopted the C.L.A.S.S. model, so I am always working to make connections and including the C.L.A.S.S. strategies in our library media program.