This video is available as a NAESPA membership benefit or for a limited time as a conference attendee.
Instruction
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66 : 51
Cultivating a Rural School Community for Student Achievement

This interactive workshop will showcase how Tsaile Public School, serving a large Native American population within Chinle Unified School District, has cultivated a culture of high expectations and continuous improvement to drive student success. Participants will explore how a guaranteed and viable curriculum, structured literacy, balanced math instruction, and strong Professional Learning Communities have led to steady academic growth. Emphasizing practical strategies and collaboration, this session offers replicable tools for rural and underserved schools aiming to close achievement gaps. Attendees will leave equipped with actionable approaches to build community partnerships, implement data-driven instruction, and foster a school culture dedicated to equity and excellence.

This talk was presented at:
2026 National ESEA Conference
February 2026 in Denver, CO
For more information:
wesharon@chinleusd.k12.az.us+www.chinleusd.k12.az.ustsaile/chinleusd.k12.az.us
Speakers
Kimberly Jim

Ms. Kimberly Jim has 10 years in education, progressing from classroom teacher to leadership at Tsaile. She is committed to supporting students, empowering teachers, and building strong family and community partnerships to foster success. Expertise is grounded in leading the school through a continuous improvement process guided by our leadership team, focusing on data analysis, instructional support, and professional development for teachers. Educators are supported to use data effectively to inform instruction and implement targeted interventions that drive student growth. Success is built on a strong belief in students, high expectations, and hard work. Our collaborative leadership approach fosters a culture of achievement and growth. Our efforts align with Chinle Unified School District’s vision to empower all students to be competitive, unique, successful, and driven through an effective team of teachers, staff, school board, parents, and community in an environment dedicated to continuous learning.

Sharon Watson-Murray

Mrs. Sharon Watson-Murray is Principal of Tsaile Public School in Chinle Unified School District with over 32 years in education, including high school CTE Business Education teacher, Academic Coach, and 4 years as Principal. Under her leadership, the school earned an A-rating and Most Distinguished status, known for high expectations and academic growth. She is passionate about equity and empowering Native and rural youth. Expertise is grounded in leading the school through a continuous improvement process guided by our leadership team, focusing on data analysis, instructional support, and professional development for teachers. Educators are supported to use data effectively to inform instruction and implement targeted interventions that drive student growth. Success is built on a strong belief in students, high expectations, and hard work. Our collaborative leadership approach fosters a culture of achievement and growth. Our efforts align with Chinle Unified School District’s vision to empower all students to be competitive, unique, successful, and driven through an effective team of teachers, staff, school board, parents, and community in an environment dedicated to continuous learning.

Tags
School Improvement
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