Longfellow Elementary School

Longfellow Elementary School is located in Muncie, Indiana, and was the final school to be selected to join the STAR Writers Project. Standardized test scores and school demographics were factors in making Longfellow a strong candidate for this project. Since they were not technology-rich before becoming involved, students and staff needed to quickly get up to speed in using computers, the internet, and in selecting an intensive writing program. Each of these areas presented some unique and difficult issues for everyone to address. Beginning in the spring of 2002, teachers and staff received professional development in technology basics, supporting learning with technology and in data driven decision making. Students and their families officially started the project in the fall of the 2002-2003 school year receiving home technology and beginning a series of family training events.

Longfellow uses Writers’ Workshop as the format for their school-wide writing program. The staff works to maintain a friendly, supportive writing setting throughout the building where students draft, share, revise, and publish. While writing in many genres and for many purposes, emphasis is also placed on correct use of grammar, spelling and punctuation. The STAR Writers Project has high expectations of all partner schools, and with the enthusiasm demonstrated by the Longfellow teachers and staff they are well on their way to meeting those demands.

Related Links:

Star Writer's Project
Longfellow Elementary Home Page