The X Factor: What makes a school successful?
By Goldwater Institute: Tom Patterson (04/18/06)
Why are some schools more successful than others? The answers from a new study by the Morrison Institute and the Center for Arizona’s Future may surprise you.
12 schools with demonstrated academic achievement despite serving mostly low income children were compared to 12 schools similar in every way—except failing academically. What accounted for the differences?
The study concluded that “successful schools do things very differently than unsuccessful schools.” Six crucial elements were identified: 1) Taking responsibility for the achievement of every student in every classroom is the focus; 2) Ongoing assessment is conducted to drive achievement; 3) A strong and steady principal is present; 4) Teachers and staff are given ownership in problem solving; 5) Commitment to a proven instructional program; 6) Daily focus is on the individual student and how to maximize their success, rather than on state academic standards or district improvement plans.
Successful schools don’t blame demographics or lack of parental involvement. Instead, they work hard on improving things they can actually control. Funding levels, class size and specialized programs are not seen as critical determinants of success.
The six principles are in many ways just common sense. Charter, private and some public schools have been using these principles for some time now to achieve excellence in educating low income children.
How can we assure the greatest number of children possible have the opportunity to attend a successful school? Market competition through choice is the driver that will compel all schools to adopt the discipline necessary for effective teaching.
Tom Patterson is a retired emergency room physician and former state senator and Chairman of the Goldwater Institute. A longer version of this article appeared in the East Valley Tribune.
http://www.goldwaterinstitute.org/article.php/967.html
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