Keys to excellence for schools (Part 1 of 2 - 7 keys)

As a principal or a teacher, how can I ensure that my school is moving towards excellence?  The following 13 factors are keys to excellence for any school.  In part 1 we will look at the first 7 keys:

1.  Commitment to long range, continuous improvement:  Parents and school employees have a shared understanding about achievable educational outcomes.

2.  Clear, explicit goals:  Where are we going with this school?

3.  Everyone must be involved in improving education.  This includes teachers, educational support personnel, parents, administrators, students, the school board, district administrators, and civic groups.

4.  Teachers, parents and learners believe that all children can learn: A general belief exists that all students can achieve under the right conditions

5.  Adequate space, supplies and support services are available, e.g. Psychological and social work services are available

6.  The school is an overall learning environment for employees and learners.

7.  Barriers are identified and removed by educational personnel, learners, parents and administration.  Barriers are removed through a cooperative problem solving process.