As we approach the mid-year point, our focus shifts to transforming the daily classroom experience. This session zeroes in on moving the needle on state performance metrics by replacing passive learning with active, student-led dialogue. We will explore high-yield instructional practices that foster productive struggle, requiring students to articulate their thinking, use evidence, and take ownership of their academic growth. Together, we will share and refine specific discourse strategies that elevate critical thinking, ensuring that readiness for state assessments is driven by deep conceptual understanding rather than rote test-prep.