Indicator 3

The school shall define school-wide academic, civic, and social learning expectations that:
• are measurable;
• reflect the school's mission.
 

What to Look for:

What should all students know and be able to do upon graduation? What is the essential core knowledge expected of all students? What proficiencies, skills, habits of mind, and social behaviors are expected? Are these standards/ expectations built upon district, state, and national standards as well as the work of professional organizations? Are academic expectations clearly stated in specific, measurable ways?
 

• a clear description of each academic expectation which defines the characteristics of that expectation (For example, just stating that students should be able "to write well" upon graduation is not sufficient. In addition, the Commission expects a clear statement which describes the characteristics of good writing: the use of supportive evidence, effective organization, clear sentence structure, correct mechanics, etc.)
• written expectations for student learning that are rigorous and apply to all students have been identified in academic, civic and social areas
• the school's expectations are consistent with its mission statement
• the school-wide expectations are able to be measured and assessed
• the school has defined the meaning of all academic, civic, and social expectations (e.g. the student speaks effectively is defined as: maintains eye contact; captures the audience's attention; uses appropriate volume and pace; uses good posture, body language and gestures effectively; establishes appropriate focus and purpose; speaks clearly and audibly; adjusts to audience reactions; and is prepared.)