Ten signs of a good school
Most good schools display these qualities:
1. Safe and Orderly Atmosphere. Discipline and academic success go hand-in-hand. Where there is chaos or fear, little learning occurs. Good schools are havens of conduct and mutual respect. The building is clean. The rules are clear-and enforced.
2. A Clear Academic Mission. Good schools spell out the knowledge and skills that children must acquire. The have a coherent course of study focused on English, math, science, history, geography, and the arts. Most of the day is devoted to these care subjects.
3. Attention to Character. Good schools treat children as moral beings. They teach about right and wrong. Teachers help train children in habits that lead to better lives.
4. Fine Teachers. Teacher are the heart of any education enterprise. Good school are full of adults of sound character who like children, know the material, and effectively impart knowledge and skills. Good schools reward greatness in teaching and refuse to tolerate mediocrity.
5. Strong Leadership. It is rare to find a good school without strong principal. The vision she holds has much to do with how well pupils will learn. She puts academic first. She protects the school day for teaching and learning.
6. High Expectation. Attitudes toward learning often become self-fulfilling prophecies. Schools that maintain high standards get greater academic achievement from children. Schools that offer dumbed-down lessons, trivial books, and slipshod standards get little in return.
7. Homework. Achievement rises when teachers give homework and children conscientiously do it. Little homework indicates a school that doesn't take academic seriously.
8. Evaluation and Feedback. Good schools hold all their students accountable for meeting standards. They monitor how children are performing. They provide feedback to teachers, and pupils. Teachers give honest grades. They recognize and reward success. They intervene in the event of failure.
9. Parent Involvement. Good schools are surrounded by moms and dads who monitor and assist with academics, stay in touch with teachers, and raise children who are well-behaved and ready to learn. Good teachers view parents as allies and invite them to join the education enterprise.
10. A Sense of Community. A good school is a welcoming place where youngsters know, that adults care deeply about them. All its participants- grownups and children alike-share enthusiasm, pride, and a sense of common purpose. There is much serious about learning, and also much joy.
William J. Bennett/Chester E. Finn: The Educated Child. New York; London; Toronto; Sydney; Singapore, p. 99.
