Providing a strong academic program that accommodates the variety of interests and abilities of public school students is a formidable challenge. Two keys to accomplishing this are the organization of instructional time and the active involvement of students in meaningful learning. In the context of this document, a strong academic program has a rigorous academic curriculum based on teaching practices proven effective in controlled evaluation studies. In a strong academic program, the process and products of learning are highly visible and proudly displayed. Students work is prominently displayed.
Students graph the accomplishments of the class, and group accomplishment is rewarded.
Students are praised for working hard on assignments, not simply for getting good grades. Circulation of library materials is high. Students have easy access to learning technology, such as computer software and the Internet. The academic program, teaching practices, and curriculum selection are guided by learning strategies that have been tested through research and evaluation. Teachers are thoroughly trained in both content and teaching strategies called for by the curriculum.