Teaching and Learning

At Bellingham Public Schools, we are committed to providing every student with access to high-quality learning experiences that inspire curiosity, foster growth, and prepare them for future success. Our educators collaborate across schools and grade levels to strengthen instructional practices, support diverse learners, and ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Our work is guided by a shared commitment to equity, high expectations, and continuous improvement. Through the ongoing development of a strong Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), the enhancement of evidence-based instructional practices, and the alignment of curriculum with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, we strive to improve outcomes for every learner.

We believe all students deserve equal access to a clearly articulated curriculum that encourages inquiry, exploration, discovery, application, and reflection. Meaningful learning begins with clear goals, builds on students' strengths, and responds to their individual needs. By partnering with educators, families, and the broader community, we promote the academic, social, and emotional growth of every student while fostering a school community where all individuals feel included, supported, and valued.

Our curriculum is developed using the Understanding by Design (UbD) framework, created by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe. Grounded in the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, this backward design model ensures that teaching and learning remain focused on meaningful outcomes through three stages:
 

• Stage 1: Desired Results – Teachers identify the essential questions, big ideas, and learning goals and objectives for each unit of study.
• Stage 2: Evidence – Teachers design assessments and performance tasks that provide students with meaningful opportunities to demonstrate their understanding and mastery of the standards.
• Stage 3: Learning Plan – Teachers develop engaging learning experiences/sequential lesson plans that build deep understanding and support all learners in achieving the desired outcomes.

Current Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks - Link to all current Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks

This website serves as a resource for families, students, educators, and community members to learn more about our curriculum, instruction, assessment practices, and district initiatives. We regularly update these pages with important information and resources, so we encourage you to visit often for the latest news and updates.

For Staff 

• Lane Change Request Form

• Professional Development Request Procedure - District Required

• Professional Development Request Procedure - Staff RequestedNEW Professional Development Request Form\

• BTA College Course Tuition Reimbursement:

• *BTA graduate course reimbursement procedure

• *College Course Pre-Approval Form

• *Tuition Reimbursement Form