Teaching, Learning and Accountability - Elementary School District 159 | 2026-2027
The Teaching, Learning, and Accountability (TLA) Department of Elementary School District 159 is committed to advancing the District's 2025–2030 Strategic Plan by building coherent systems that strengthen teaching, accelerate student learning, and ensure every child experiences high-quality instruction every day. We believe student success is achieved when leadership, curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional learning work together through a continuous cycle of improvement.
Guided by our core values of student-centered, innovation, and accountability, the TLA Department partners with educators, school leaders, families, and the community to create engaging, inclusive, and academically rigorous learning environments where every student can thrive.
During the 2026–2027 school year, our work will focus on strengthening Tier I instruction through standards-aligned curriculum, evidence-based instructional practices, meaningful professional learning, and data-informed decision-making. By connecting instructional leadership, coaching, and continuous improvement, we are creating a system where every initiative is intentionally designed to improve student achievement.
Our Strategic Priorities
● Strengthen Tier I Instruction through rigorous, standards-aligned teaching and learning.
● Improve Literacy and Mathematics Achievement using evidence-based instruction, targeted interventions, and meaningful assessment data.
● Build Instructional Leadership Capacity through coaching, professional learning, and instructional calibration.
● Implement Continuous Improvement Systems using collaborative professional learning communities and the Harvard Data Wise Improvement Process.
● Support Educator Growth with job-embedded coaching, reflective practice, and actionable feedback.
● Expand Innovative Learning Opportunities that promote creativity, collaboration, inquiry, and critical thinking.
● Promote Whole Child Development by strengthening attendance, student engagement, school belonging, and social-emotional wellness.
● Ensure Accountability Through Support by using instructional evidence and continuous feedback to improve teaching and learning.
This year, we will continue refining systems that align curriculum, instruction, assessment, professional learning, and leadership development into one coherent framework focused on student success. Through strategic partnerships, including Rich Township High School District 227 and the Metro Chicago Mathematics Initiative (MCMI), we are investing in both educator capacity and improved student outcomes.
At ESD 159, we believe student achievement improves when educators receive clear expectations, meaningful support, ongoing coaching, and timely data. Together, we remain committed to continue connecting leadership, teacher support, instructional excellence, and accountability to ensure every learner is prepared to achieve, lead, and thrive.
Dr. Tanya L. Fields
Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning and Accountability
