Step 5: Develop improvement goals

Now it is time to set forth goals for improvement, based on all of the data that has been analyzed and the theories that have been proposed. Goals should demonstrate the following characteristics:

Clear. Goals should be focused and clearly stated.

• Data-based. The goals should be directly based on the observed patterns of problems seen through the data, and show their connection to the evaluation criteria.
• Few. Goals should be few in number-they should be substantive and focused on the primary purpose of improving student achievement.
• Measurable. Goals should be measurable and articulate the desired outcome, not the specific strategies.
• Sustainable. Goals should be systemic and sustainable. The goals should lead to system changes and adjustments that can be sustained into the future.
• Customer-driven. Goals should be developed with outcomes that will meet the needs of the district's and school's customers-students, parents, school board members, the community-in fulfilling the district and school mission.
• Consensus. Agreement should be reached on the district and school goals.

Sample improvement goals

To improve the mathematics performance of students in grades 6,7, and 8 so that at least 65% of the students in grade 8 are at the proficient level, and 70% of the students in grades 6 and 7 surpass the Terra Nova median scale scores.

To improve the science performance of students in high school, grades 9 and 10, so that 80% of the 10th grade students perform at proficient or advanced levels, and that there is an increase in students enrolling in elective science courses in grades 11 and 12.

To improve the reading performance of children in grades 1,2, and 3 so that 100% of the students in grade 1 are reading at level 16, and 100% of the students in grade 2 are reading at level 30, and that 100% of the students in grade 3 reach the basic level or above on the Wisconsin Reading Comprehension Test.