In a classroom at Eastbluff Elementary, students move with purpose. A teacher works closely with a small group on a reading lesson while nearby classmates practice skills through games, writing, and digital learning. The room is calm, focused, and active. This scene is now part of daily instruction in every classroom across the campus.

Small group instruction is a core part of Tier 1 teaching in both English language arts and math. Tier 1 instruction is the core classroom instruction all students receive daily. Students begin with whole-group lessons using the district curriculum, then rotate through small groups where instruction is adjusted based on data and individual understanding. This structure provides every student with targeted support and challenges.

Sixth-grade teacher Jeremy Searcy said, “Each student has the space to ask questions and not feel bored or left behind,” he shared. “Small groups allow me to check for understanding.” He has seen noticeable growth in student confidence, particularly in reading comprehension, as students ask deeper questions and engage more fully with texts.

Early assessment results show steady academic growth in reading proficiency. Math results also reflect positive progress, particularly in sixth grade. These trends suggest that targeted small-group instruction is helping students strengthen skills, achieve at higher levels, and build confidence.

Fifth-grade teacher Travis Lagerlof emphasized the relational impact of the model. “Students are more willing to ask questions, try again when something is difficult, and not shut down when they make mistakes.” He noted that this confidence often carries back into whole-class discussions and independent work.

In the primary grades, teachers see both academic and social benefits. First-grade teacher Lindsay Moore meets with every group daily and said the structure allows her to provide specific support to students while building strong relationships. “It fosters an amazing sense of community in our classroom.”

During Eastbluff’s professional development, teachers observe small group instruction across grade levels. These observations give teachers a clear view of what instruction looks like before and after their own grade level to help them develop practical ideas to bring back to their classrooms. 

Families are also noticing the difference. Parents commented that students feel supported without embarrassment and challenged without frustration, leading to greater motivation and pride in their progress.

Sixth grader Brian Grant said, “I learn a lot more in the smaller group… and when I need it, the teacher can help me right away.”

Principal Daphne Eby said the goal has always been student success through intentional instruction. “Small group instruction gives every student access to instruction at their level to support their individual growth,” she said. “It also allows our teachers to learn from one another and continuously strengthen their practice.”

As Eastbluff continues this work, the most meaningful progress can already be seen in the daily moments taking place in classrooms. Through purposeful small group instruction, students are developing a love of learning, as they feel supported, challenged, and empowered to succeed.