Policy Document: Accountability Framework

In effect July 1, 2002. Current Policy.

The Accountability Framework, rooted in the School Act, reflects a public commitment to improve student results. The Accountability Framework includes: Annual School Plans developed by School Planning Councils, Achievement Contracts supported by Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreements, and District Reviews.

The Accountability Framework:

  • Defines ‘accountability’ as responsibility for the improvement of achievement of each student in the province;
  • Acknowledges that schools and districts are unique; and goals, objectives, targets, and evidence used to demonstrate improvement are determined by the district, with the expectation that each district will have targets for literacy (K-12), completion rates and Aboriginal student improvement
  • Focuses on inquiry to identify areas of greatest need, monitor progress and critically analyze actions for effectiveness;
  • Promotes evidence-based, data-driven decision making with a focus on assessment for learning;
    Mandates parental involvement and encourages ongoing dialogue with all parents, partner groups, and the community.

[Any major changes to a policy to be listed here in point form]


POLICY STATEMENT

The accountability framework focuses school and district attention and resources on improving student achievement. Key elements include:

RATIONALE

The Accountability Framework formalizes school board responsibility for improving student achievement.

LEGISLATION/ REGULATIONS

Sections 8 to 8.5 and 79.2 of the School Act create the legal framework for parents' advisory councils, school planning councils, school plans, and achievement contracts.

POLICY

Each school and school board will develop plans for improvement. Schools, Boards of Education and the Ministry will monitor progress towards improving student performance and will report these results to parents and the community. Implementation may differ from school district to school district.

Accountability contracts detail the specific goals individual Boards of Education have set to enhance student achievement. Student achievement includes intellectual, human and social development, and career development. These contracts reflect the unique characteristics, priorities and needs in each district.

District Review Teams will focus on improving student achievement through school and district planning. Up to 20 district reviews will occur annually as part of the accountability framework. Teams will include parents, teachers, other school district staff (including principals and other administrators) and Ministry of Education staff.

School Planning Councils, consisting of the principal, a teacher, three parents, and one student from Grade 10, 11 or 12 where applicable, will examine how well their students are performing and develop an annual plan for their school that includes goals and outcomes for improvement.

PROCEDURES

To view the guidelines which have been developed to accompany the new legislation for implementation in school districts, see School Planning Councils.

 

 

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