Excitement about learning pulls in one direction, covering the material that will be on the test pulls in the other. The first thing to go in a school or district where these tests matter a lot is a more vibrant, integrated, active, effective kind of instruction. The key to making smart decisions lies in comprehensive planning. Start by thinking of school district buildings as one side of a triangle. The other sides are educational programs and student demographics.
Comprehensive planning calls for a team effort that crosses lines of responsibility and expertise.
An effective working committee might include a planning facilitator and personnel from curriculum and instruction, facilities, transportation, maintenance, and finance. Exercise good business judgment by keeping the database current and annually updating the five-year plan. A sidebar offers examples of questions that need to be asked and answered. A small child needs to be nurtured and cared for. Small children like to be in spaces that have clear boundaries and limits, because such spaces convey a feeling of safety and intimacy.