HIGHLIGHTS of the CPSS Website:
Learn about the 2011 Standards for Accreditation, which go into effect in less than one year: Start with the "Getting Started" tab and review the Explanation of 2011 Standards. You will find helpful information to inform your understanding of each Standard and specific indicator .Get a head start by reviewing the 2011 Rating Guides: Conduct a self-assessment of your school's adherence to the Standards by reviewing practices in your school against the Rating Guides, also found under the "Getting Started" tab.
Get clarification about 21st century learning expectations, core values, and beliefs about learning to inform revision of your school's mission: Review the new "Guidebook to Implementing Core Values, Beliefs about Learning, and 21st Century Learning Expectations," which includes a step-by-step process principals can use to involve all school stakeholders in this review. Check out the extensive bibliography for Standard 1 -- Core Values, Beliefs, and Learning Expectations -- under the "Tools" tab on the right.
Visit our website often and look under the Events tab for new programs.
Contact your staff liaison often with questions. We look forward to assisting you! If you are not sure who your staff liaision is, call any of us and we can help you!
FROM THE DIRECTOR
The continued strength of CPSS membership is directly related to the reputation of the Commission as a leader in school improvement through an accountability system that is fair, supportive, and directly tied to research based best practices. In effect, the Commission has carved out a unique purpose for school accreditation as an accountability system: voluntary improvement of professional practice tied to research and informed by impartial peer review.
The success of CPSS attests to the dogged professionalism of schools in New England that want to improve how they teach and assess learning, how they lead, and how they use resources. CPSS accreditation affirms the uniqueness of schools and the deep belief of New England public secondary schools that they deserve to be entitled to managing and being held accountable for school improvement grounded in professional practice.
Janet Allison