RSA:2 - Goal Setting

http://asumag.com/issue_20081101/

RSA2: Goal Setting

“The science behind the mechanisms and mediators that lead to successful goal accomplishment has been a focus of research since the 1970’s” (Curran & Reich, 2011).  All members of a school need to be involved in the planning and the developing of school goals. The goals must be strategic, measurable, attainable, result orientated, and time bound (O’Neill & Conzemius). Student achievement is linked with having SMART goals.  These goals provide a purpose for student learning, a challenge for student learning and a meaning for student learning. Simple goal setting can increase student performance.

Teachers working together, along with administrators are committed to the improvement though shared values and reflection.  Teachers can collect and analyze data, and make better instructional decisions (Rasberry, 2008). By working together to develop these goals, teachers can engage in deeper learning and make instructional decisions as a team. Everyone is on the same page with student achievement, growth, and results.  Higher performing schools set explicit academic goals that are aligned with the state standards (Dolejs, 2006). Teachers need to have a clear vision of what students need to learn.

All members of the district need to be involved in this process, the district goals, the school goals and the team goals.  The Principal and teachers share leadership to set and take ownership of these goals.  The goals will focus on exactly what students should know, learn and results.  “Schools with teachers who learn and kids who achieve use clear, agreed-upon student achievement goals to focus and shape teacher learning.” (WestEd, 2000)