The High-Performing School: Benchmarking the 10 Indicators of Effectiveness

Finalist--ForeWord Reviews 2009 Book of the Year Award

Get three books in one! First, learn what research has identified as the 10 indicators of high-performing schools. Then, use rubrics to track how closely your school reflects those practices and learn what you can do to improve. Finally, use tools and strategies to create buy-in and involve all stakeholders, as well as monitor and report progress along the way.

Benefits:

• Review up-to-date summaries of research on the characteristics and practices of effective schools.
• Learn how to use rubrics for determining the degree of a school's effectiveness.
• Gain step-by-step instructions for planning and conducting or undergoing an on-site school review.

Contents:
Introduction: Knowing What to Do
Chapter 1: Effectiveness Indicator 1: Written Curriculum
Chapter 2: Effectiveness Indicator 2: Instructional Program
Chapter 3: Effectiveness Indicator 3: Student Assessment
Chapter 4: Effectiveness Indicator 4: School Leadership
Chapter 5: Effectiveness Indicator 5: Strategic Planning
Chapter 6: Effectiveness Indicator 6: Professional Development
Chapter 7: Effectiveness Indicator 7: Student Connectedness, Engagement, and Readiness
Chapter 8: Effectiveness Indicator 8: School Environment
Chapter 9: Effectiveness Indicator 9: Family and Community Involvement
Chapter 10: Effectiveness Indicator 10: District Support
Chapter 11: Leading the Way
Chapter 12: Preparing for the On-Site Visit
Chapter 13: Examining Data and Other Documents
Chapter 14: The Process: How to Conduct a Research-Based On-Site School Review
Chapter 15: Communicating Results
Chapter 16: Now What? Strategic Planning and Professional Development
Conclusion: Sustaining and Nurturing a Student-Focused School
Appendix: Selected Tools

Mardale Dunsworth is a founding partner of School Synergy, an educational consulting firm. She was formerly director of learning and teaching technology for Washington State. In that capacity, she led the design and development of an innovative Web-based statewide professional development and certification system. Previously, as director of the Office of Curriculum, Instruction, and Professional Technical Education in the Oregon Department of Education, Mardale led the development of the research-based Comprehensive School Review process, supervised services to low-performing schools, coordinated regional technical assistance, and administered federal grant programs. She was a small-business owner prior to entering public service. Mardale holds a bachelor's degree in public policy and administration and a maste's degree in curriculum and instruction.

Dawn Billings is also a founding partner of School Synergy. Before forming School Synergy, Dawn was assistant superintendent for professional development for Washington State. She led the statewide professional development initiative, including the creation of Washington's Professional Development Standards. Previously Dawn was director of curriculum and instruction in the Oregon Department of Education. She led the development of state content standards, directed Reading First and Title II, and supervised charter schools. She has held a variety of teaching and administrative positions in both public education and business and industry. Dawn holds bachelor's and master's degrees in education.

Mardale and Dawn have been involved in the design, development, and use of the on-site school review process since 2000.