Traits of Highly Effective Schools:#6

Elaine K. McEwan writes a book about the qualities and unique characteristics of school that help students get the "Best Education Possible". Each chapter offers research-based trait and examines its impact on student achievement. Trait # 6 is High Expectations.

High Expectations - Teachers can say they have high expectations because they expect their students to do tons of work and pass very difficult test.  However, tons of work and difficult test do not necessarily mean high expectations.  In order to qualify for membership in the high expectations club, teachers have to believe that their students can achieve, explicitly teach them how to get smart, and convey a profound and unwavering commitment to their academic success. 

How can High Expectations be achieved:

1. Eliminate Low Expectations - Once your convey to children, whether consciously or not that they are too "dumb" to learn, they will almost always prove you right.

2. Intervene Before They Fail - Help students achieve academic success by giving intervention to students who show non-mastery in reading and other content areas.

3. Build in Rigor and Relevance - An average student who attended a "high rigor instruction school" would learn about 78% more mathematics between Grades 8-10 than comparable students in a
"low rigor instruction school.