Schools that encourage academic achievement focus on the import- ance of scholastic success and on maintaining order and discipline. Good schools focus sharply on learning. Principals and teachers believe they can make a difference in what students learn. Teachers and students believe each student is capable of making significant academic progress.
Students understand and agree that their first priority is to learn.
School activities reinforce these attitudes. Routines discourage disorder and disruptions. Teachers and principals protect the classroom from interruptions. Academic success is expected and rewarded. Public ceremonies honor student achievement.