Focus is a newsletter produced with the Boston Public Schools and mailed to the home of BPS employees.

Originally, "Focus" was intended to convey the research behind the district's reform design, known as Whole-School Improvement, and clarify expectations. After a brief hiatus, publication of the newsletter resumed with a new emphasis on the actual work being done in Boston's schools as principals and teachers implement aspects of whole-school improvement. Past topics have included literacy, effective practices, professional development, use of time, and standards and curriculum.

The latest issue of Focus looks at efforts three Boston schools have made to increase access to high-quality instruction for special education students, to challenge their own expectations for special needs students, and to reorganize their schools to support all students better. The topic is timely: The district is working to develop a strategic plan for special education that focuses on instructional practice and professional development and that will provide guidance to all schools.

Archives of Focus Newsletter (by school year published)

2005-2006

• Special Education

2004-2005

• Making Meaning
• MyBPS Assessment
• Relationships Matter

2003-2004

• Formative Assessment
• Workshop Instruction in the BPS

2000-2001

• The Essentials in Practice

1999-2000

• Teaching to Standards in 900 Hours per Year
• Whole-School Change: Where Are We Now?
• Whole-School Change: Where Are We Now (small version)?

Pre 1999

• 21st Century Schools
• Effective School Visits
• Finding Time to Meet in the School Day
• Focusing on Literacy
• Parts of the Boston Annenberg Challenge
• PS 126: A School With Instructional Focus
• Moving Toward Best Classroom Practices
• The Quality of Assignments and Student Work
• Ruth Mitchell: Looking At Student Work
• What Are 21st Century Schools?