This question is answered depending on the district. Some districts employ this role to work only students identified as Advanced (and/or Gifted). Some districts employ this role to work with struggling and and RTI students. I am excited, because my district is shifting from my role being pigeon-holed to working Advanced students, to working with ALL students.
Best Practice suggests using flexible group for math and literacy. This means using formative and summative assessments to determine student needs. Teachers then create small groups based on trends. While some students struggle frequently, they still have their strengths. While some students accelerate frequently, they still have their weaknesses. What do I mean by this? I mean reality...this is the case for all of us!
Some students read fluently, but pay little attention to, and struggle with comprehension. Some students find geometry a breeze, but algebra and word problems an obstacle. This information helps teachers group students according. As a DS, I work with varying groups, because they change based on the content being studied. I model and co-teach Best Practice lessons, provide quality resources, and offer suggestions for technology engagement strategies.
So back to the age-old question: "DS? What does that mean?". It means everything. I do a conglomeration: I analyze school data to create the SIP and professional development, I meet with teachers to determine class and individual needs, I collaborate with teachers on model/co-teach lessons, I provide resources...and even more resources. What does it mean to be a DS? It means being challenged by teachers, students, and parents everyday...it means having a fun and engaging day, every day. It means providing a fun and engaging day, every day, for students.
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