In doing so, PLS honors the distinction between the role of the board and superintendent by focusing on standards to guide administrative decisions and actions, rather than on extensive operational procedures. To further assist a local board in its role, PLS also provides a means of accountability between the superintendent and the board. Depending on the subject matter, some policies require the superintendent to evaluate programs or report back to the board on a regular basis.
Accountability is essential throughout the educational process.
Personnel are made accountable for meeting board standards and fulfilling board requirements. Policies also establish specific performance standards for making decisions regarding the evaluation of professional employees, career status, school administrator contracts and dismissal. Students also are made accountable for meeting standards of behavior with a system of consequences developed at both the board and school level. Setting standards and accountability also are part of meeting legal requirements. In addition, PLS incorporates processes as necessary to comply with the law, such as those related to notifying parents, students and staff of their rights and the means for exercising those rights.