With most states signed onto the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) initiative, a major challenge ahead is aligning their accountability systems with these new standards (and assessments). Toward that end, the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) has developed this roadmap for “next-generation” accountability systems. (This is version one.) It details eight elements, none of which will likely startle you. For example, we’ll need clear performance objectives aligned to the standards, meaningful differentiation of performance between districts and schools, and timely and transparent reporting of actionable student data. Also flagged here are helpful resources (from groups like Achieve and the U.S. Department of Labor) and state exemplars (FL, KY, IN, and TN) for those looking to revamp their accountability systems. Not a bad start. Thanks, chiefs.
Council of Chief State School Officers Task Force on Next Generation Accountability Systems, “Roadmap for Next-Generation State Accountability Systems,” (Washington, D.C.: Council of Chief State School Officers, June 17, 2011).