State + Local Policies

During the transition to a proficiency-based system of teaching and learning, districts and schools will need to review and possibly revise existing policies, while also creating new policies that address emerging models, practices, and learning experiences.

In our view, the best policies balance prescription with flexibility—they provide detailed, unambiguous guidance on the most essential design features of a local educational system, while also allowing school leaders and teachers a great deal of flexibility when it comes to implementation. While effectively written policies can provide clarity and sustain important innovations, educators must also be given the flexibility they need to evolve educational systems and practices over time and remain responsive to emerging student needs.

In this section, school leaders will find a variety of exemplar district policies that can be adapted to suit local needs and contexts. The Great Schools Partnership encourages state agencies, nonprofit organizations, districts, and schools to use or revise our policies for noncommercial purposes in the public interest.

We have also provided a policy checklist that will help school boards, administrators, and teacher-leaders identify policies that may need to be reviewed, revised, or created.

 

The Great Schools Partnership encourages state agencies, nonprofit organizations, districts, and schools to use or adapt our policies for noncommercial purposes in the public interest.

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