Characteristics of Successful Schools

CHAPTER ONE
What are the characteristics of Successful Schools?

HIGH ACADEMIC STANDARDS

Definition

High academic standards describe what students are expected to know and be able to do. High standards in each and every subject are the foundation for academic success.

Rationale

Academic standards provide a clear definition of expectations for all students. Standards serve as a common target for students, staff and parents.

Key Ideas

1. Academic standards clearly identify what all students should know and be able to do across the curriculum.
2. Benchmarks provide evidence of progress toward achieving the standards.
3. To provide students the opportunity to gain the knowledge, skills, and processes identified in the standards. Curriculum, instruction, and climate must be aligned with the standards.
4. In addition to the Wisconsin Student Assessment System, student achievement is assessed at the district, school, and classroom levels through a wide variety of forms such as projects, presentations, and portfolios.

Successful Schools Have High Academic Standards That:

1. expect all students will achieve at high levels.
2. link to local, state, and national standards.
3. establish measurable performance indicators and benchmarks for all students.
4. emphasize conceptual understanding and the application of knowledge, skills, and processes.
5. communicate learning expectations to students and parents.
6. serve as the basis for culturally inclusive curriculum, instructional methodology, resources, and assessment measures for evaluation criteria.
7. are used by teachers to guide instructional planning and implementation for diverse learners.
8. guide assessment strategies which inform students, parents, teachers, and other community members about student achievement.

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For questions about this information, contact G. Elaine Granke (608) 267-1294

Last updated on 2/22/2008 1:57:16 PM