"Without preparation opportunity is an empty promise."

1. An effective school climate is achieved through the cooperation and support of administrators, teachers, students, parents, staff, and school board. Indicators are:

   • trust

   • open communication

   • a sharing of beliefs, goals, and responsibilities

   • an environment stressing caring, sharing, and respect for others.

   • supportive atmosphere encouraging professionalism

2. An essential function of schooling is that students perform at high levels of learning and experience opportunities for success. Indicators are that students are provided with:

   • sufficient time to learn

   • a trusting environment where they can make decisions without the fear of failure or criticism

   • favorable learning conditions and quality instruction

   • opportunities to experience challenge

3. An effective school, in seeking improved learning, welcomes change and evolution in its instructional processes. Indicators are that the instructional staff:

   • modify planning procedures to accommodate differing teaching and learning styles

   • allows for spontaneity and creativity

   • adapts and changes for continuous improvement

   • sets high standards and has high expectations for students

4. The school community will provide an effective instructional process that varies the time for learning according to the needs of each student and the complexity of the task. Indicators are:

   • learning is a continuous process

   • students can learn to the best of their ability provided that they have the necessary time and services

   • time is managed properly

5. The school community believes that success influences self-concept, which in turn influences learning and behavior. Indicators are:

   • what is communicated to the students reflects positive regard for each individual

   • students view themselves as important, valued, and respected

6. Administrators, teachers, and students share responsibility for success. Indicators are:

   • learning is an active process requiring active participation of all parties

   • administrators and teachers share responsibility for curriculum development

   • teachers plan and prepare for instruction

   • students share the responsibility for learning by completing homework assignments and preparing for assessments

7. Assessment of achievement is continuous and determines the instructional placement. Indicators are:

   • the assessment enables instructors to teach at an appropriate level

   • timely feedback in assessment is given to students