Thoughtfully applying evidence to the work of schools is both an art and a science. Explore the topics below to brush up on research concepts, consider questions of quality, and strengthen your skills in evidence-based decision making.
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Key Topics in Schools
All states face unique and complex challenges in their school systems. Pennsylvania has organized its priorities for school improvement using two primary tools, which provide measures of progress and growth, and set the bar for exemplary school operations, culture, and instructional practice.
The Future Ready PA Index
The Pennsylvania Department of Education recognizes that students – and the schools that serve them – are more than just standardized test scores.
Launched in November 2018, the Future Ready PA Index is the result of discussions with thousands of educators, parents, advocates, policymakers, and business leaders across Pennsylvania about how communities should evaluate schools.
The tool moves beyond a single, summative score to increase transparency around school and student group performance features a dashboard approach to present data and information that illustrates student and school success via three color-coded categories: academic performance, student progress, and college and career readiness, providing the public with a more comprehensive look at how Pennsylvania's schools are educating students.
Explore strategies for the Future Ready PA Indicators:
The PA Essential Practices
Pennsylvania's Essential Practices for Schools focuses on continuous improvement of instruction, empowering leadership, providing student-centered supports, and fostering quality professional development for all staff.
Explore strategies for the PA Essential Practices:
- Standards-aligned Curriculum, Assessments, and Instruction
- Collaborative Instructional Planning
- Variety of Assessments to Monitor Student Learning
- Identify and Address Individual Student Learning Needs
- Frequent, Timely Feedback and Support on Instructional Practices
- Empowered Staff
- Culture of High Expectations for Success
- Collective Vision for Teaching and Learning
- Needs-based Organization and Allocation of Resources
- Continuous Monitoring of School Improvement Plan Implementation
- Positive School Environment Where All Members Feel Welcomed, Supported, and Safe
- Schoolwide Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports
- Multi-Tiered System of Support for Academics and Behavior
- Family Engagement
- Partnerships with Local Businesses, Community Organizations, and Other Agencies
- Professional Learning Responsive to Needs
- Multiple Professional Learning Designs
- Evaluate the Impact of Professional Learning