They focus on literacy, encourage continuous improvement of teaching and learning, focus on student learning, and engage parents and community members in helping all students achieve at high levels. Schools make hiring, budget and program decisions. Parents and students can choose schools and have access to alternative delivery systems. The school board, district administration and employee representatives articulate and model shared values. District leaders seek regular feedback from students, staff and parents.
Business partnerships provide work-based teaming opportunities.
Community supports the improvement agenda. Learning opportunities for staff members include professional development and time for the instructional staff to analyze data, target efforts and solve problems. Partnerships with schools of education improve teacher preparation and induction. The focus is competence not coverage. Students struggle with complex problems, explore core concepts to develop deep understanding, and apply knowledge in real world contexts.