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During the last two decades there has been much focus among school administrators, educational researchers and professional associations in education on the topics of school accountability, effective schools and school improvement. Obviously, the factors referred to earlier regarding characteristics such as size of the school system and number of schools at each grade level, school building size, pupil-teacher ratio, pupil performance on scholarship examinations and instructional expenditures per pupil are important elements to consider. It is logical to conclude that in schools, as in virtually any other enterprise, there is a relationship between resources and output.

There are factors that many believe affect or even determine school effectiveness. SchoolMatch® can provide our attorney clients with analysis of these crucial factors, utilizing our database information and our years of experience as a foundation. Although conclusions have varied, most researchers have agreed on the importance of the following characteristics:

The school is appropriately financed in relation to its size, mission, and goals.
The school mission is understood by students, teachers, administrators, and the community, and it is based on a commitment to learning.
School facilities and resources complement the school mission.
There is a warm, accepting climate in the school and the classroom in which students are valued and respected. Students are recognized as being able to achieve and to learn, and they are encouraged to do so.
Feedback is prompt and used to reinforce desired behaviors. Skills in one subject are applied in other subjects. Schools monitor student progress within a carefully planned program.
Understanding and respect for various cultures are demonstrated by students and school staff.
Instruction emphasizes applying knowledge to real-life situations.
School officials make a determined effort to communicate with parents and to use parent and community resources. Strengths and weaknesses of the schools are identified and reported to the community.

Facilities and staff are provided to support the curriculum and school programs. Instruction is well-managed; school resources are utilized appropriately to support the school's academic mission.

Unfortunately, some information that would be useful for comparisons is simply not available. School systems sometimes collect data unevenly, and follow up actions are periodically forgotten. This can result in misleading information. SchoolMatch® can help out when it comes to sorting and organizing school data.