Community Checkup

Following on the theme of my last post on models of educational success… A couple of years ago, PBS produced a great program, “Making Schools Work” where they highlighted effective educational approaches such as Success for All, Comer School Development Program (SDP), and Knowledge is Power Program (KIPP). There is extensive research on Success for All and SDP demonstrating their effectiveness, particularly with low-income and ethnic minority populations. They also have been widely adopted by districts across the country. KIPP charter schools are newer and have less research, but the evidence that does exist is impressive.

Some common themes among them: A strong belief in the potential for every child to learn; high expectations; strong supports; a focus on developing a community and culture of learning; close monitoring of student progress; encouragement of input and/or involvement from community and parents.