“Strategic plans are based on data that are used to focus school improvement efforts.” (Dunsworth et al., 2013, Kindle Location 950). In its name alone, strategic planning implies making decisions based on good and complete information. Program evaluation flushes out into the open the data you need in order to contemplate and plan for the steps that lead to best practices. Choosing not to use program evaluation as a critical component of strategic planning, is like making a putt without reading a green -- why rely on happenstance when taxpayer dollars and student learning is at stake? Accepting that program evaluation is an integrated part of school processes, and the focus clearly on improving teaching and learning, the demographic and performance data gathered can be systematically analyzed in an effort to address identified challenges. With stakeholder input, the results of a routinely monitored action plan, implemented with fidelity, can be compared against predetermined goals.
“The hallmark of a learning organization is not lovely visions floating in space, but a relentless willingness to examine “what is” in light of our vision.” (Senge, 2010, p. 210). In order to support an environment of reflective inquiry, staff member must be committed to the intent to work toward making real those visions through examining programs, not people. A level of trust must exist, and a desire to work together, from student, teacher, administrator and parent to community members. The school must almost develop a growth mindset, accepting that mistakes and unexpected information will push the institution to expand its capabilities. Resources: Dunsworth, Mardale; Billings, Dawn (2013-05-07). Effective Program Evaluation (Essentials for Principals). Solution Tree Press. Kindle Edition. Senge, Peter M. (2010-03-25). The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of The Learning Organization. The Crown Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.
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