Charter school would emphasize DI

by Michele Catahay

Guam - The Guam Academy of Charter Schools Council will meet for the first time on Monday to discuss a number of things. The agenda includes the selection of a chairperson, and the submission of applications for charter schools.

National Institute of Direct Instruction Project Coordinator Donna Dwiggins says an application has been submitted to create a charter school strictly focusing on the Direct Instruction teaching method. She says the institution will allow them to provide a more cohesive instructional program that will accelerate growth.

Dwiggins told KUAM News, "The proposal was written from Kindergarten through 12th grade. They will not be opened all at the same. Initially, we would open K through 6th. The reason for including 6th grade in the first year is that kids are transitioning after 5th grade anyway. The idea is that we would like to take some of those students who are really performing well in 5th grade and continue to move them through the Direct Instruction and move them on up through high school."

Dwiggins says charter schools provide parents with options when it comes to education and learning. A bill was enacted into law allowing for individuals and organizations to start charter schools on Guam.

The meeting gets underway at 5:30pm at the Guam Legislature in Hagatna.