NewJerseyQualitySingleAccountabilityContinuum(NJQSAC).ppt

New Jersey Quality Single Accountability Continuum (NJQSAC) New Jersey School Boards Association October 26, 2006 Atlantic City, New Jersey Presenters: New Jersey Department of Education Penelope E. Lattimer, Ph.D., Chief of Staff Diane Schonyers, Director Office of Strategic Initiatives and Accountability Donna Arons, Special Assistant to the Commissioner NJQSAC What is NJQSAC? NJQSAC is the Department of Education’s new monitoring and evaluation system. Its primary purpose is to measure and improve school district performance in meeting State standards. It is also designed to ensure all districts operate at a high level of performance. What is NJQSAC? Continued… It replaces the old monitoring system and integrates many of the requirements of: Existing Code and Statute State Takeover Law Federal Mandates Guiding Principles Impetus for change included the following considerations: Inclusion of clear standards of performance; Effectiveness in the focus and identification of needs earlier in process; Efficiency in delivery of technical assistance to districts; Prevention of outcomes that result from unaddressed problems; Collaboration between Department of Education and districts; Swift involvement of Department of Education for only the time necessary in the specific areas of need; Recognition and support for district progress; Build capacity at the district level; and Build public understanding of district performance among educators, policy makers, legislators, and citizens. What You Should Know About NJQSAC NJQSAC ……… Applies to all school districts, except Educational Services Commissions and Charter Schools What You Should Know About NJQSAC NJQSAC ……… Supports efficient use of district resources Emphasizes family and community involvement Sets expectations for student achievement Uses a uniform tool of evaluation titled “District Performance Review” (DPR) Why is NJQSAC needed? While NJQSAC is new, the monitorin