NEA's GPS Indicators

I decided to visit the link nea.org/gpsindicators, which is published by the National Education Association.  This site provides information regarding criteria that determines how all states and school districts are addressing areas that are critical to the success of public schools.  NEA believes that the success lies in a strong accountability and assessment system and more.  The associations’ recommendations are research based and are designed to help states develop policies that ensure the success of all students.

Some of the areas that they made recommendations in are that of School Readiness which they suggest can be achieved through high standards and having a plan in place to transition a child from early learning to elementary school.  This organization also recommends that state educators should be involved in Developing and Implementing Plans for standards and curriculum.  Schools must provide resources as well as professional development.  Conditions of Teaching and Learning recommends providing time for planning as well as instructional support for teachers.  This would give educators a say in accountability systems rather than just being told what they are expected to do.

Another area that is address is that of Workforce Quality, which recommends that, states support high quality education preparation and licensure programs, as well as teacher leadership opportunities.  Accountability and Assessment allows for all stakeholders to share the responsibility of using a comprehensive picture of school performance rather than just a snap shot of one day.  It also recommends Family and Community Engagement to foster collaboration with families to improve student achievement.  This organizations addresses the much needed issue of School Funding as it gives states suggestions of ways they can raise their tax base and encourages districts to use performance incentives to ensure school districts use funds productively.  

Although, this website does support implementing standards into our school systems all the way down to the early learning years it does give some suggestions that are helpful to school districts; and those moving forward with the advancement of the Early Childhood field.  The NEA is currently advocating for full day, fully funded kindergarten programs in all states.  Living in Florida we have had full day kindergarten programs for 30 plus years and I just can't imagine how some states have not kept up with this change in services, but still expect students to meet Common Core Standards.