Standards for Effective Schools

Clear and Focused Mission 

Definition: The school’s purpose and approach to support learning for all

Key Concepts

• A culture of ownership for student success
• Shared beliefs and values
• Commitment to a shared vision

Instructional Leadership 

Definition: Ensuring the effectiveness of instruction leads to student achievement 

Key Concepts

• Principal ensures implementation of high yield instructional strategies
• Staff lead and assume responsibility for overall academic success
• Students are engaged in age-appropriate leadership opportunities

High Expectations for Success

Definition: Purposefully providing a climate in which all students can learn and succeed

Key Concepts

• Staff believe in and demonstrate their ability to successfully teach all students
• Staff believe all students can and will obtain mastery
• Responses and adjustments occur to assure mastery when some students do not learn, or have already mastered the concept

Positive and Safe Environment

Definition: Orderly, purposeful, and accommodating of all students’ needs

Key Concepts

• Collaboration and cooperation are pervasive among staff and students
• Appropriate behavior is expected and supported
• Student diversity is embraced and respected

Equitable Opportunities to Learn and Effective Instruction

Definition: Sufficient time for meaningful learning is provided to all students

Key Concepts

• Instructional time is utilized efficiently and effectively
• Instructional activities are rigorous and aligned to student interest and State Standards
• Feedback is timely, ongoing, and supports individual student growth

Frequent Monitoring of Student Progress 

Definition: A variety of data are used as the basis for adjusting the instructional approach

Key Concepts

• Formative assessments are utilized to measure student performance
• Student performance is used to guide instructional decisions
• Teacher monitors student progress toward established instructional goals

Family and Community Partnerships 

Definition: Purposeful relationships exist  between families, community, and the school

Key Concepts

• The school community fosters shared responsibility for student success
• Community understands and supports the school’s mission
• Partnerships exist between school and community to support academic, social-emotional, and physical needs