Accountability for Learning

<p><em>Accountability</em>. The very mention of the word strikes fear in the hearts of many teachers and school leaders leading to confusion and panic rather than improved student achievement. Author Douglas B. Reeves explains how to transform accountability from destructive and demoralizing accounting drills into a constructive decision-making process that improves teaching learning and leadership. Reeves encourages educators to become proactive in developing student-centered accountability systems. These systems capture the many aspects of teaching that test scores don't reveal--they tell the stories behind the numbers. Reeves shows how educators can create accountability systems that enhance teacher motivation and lead to significant improvements in student achievement and equity even in traditionally low-performing schools.</p><p><em>Accountability for Learning</em> explains how to build a student-centered accountability system by examining key indicators in teaching leadership curriculum and parent and community involvement. Focusing on the classroom it outlines how teachers can become leaders in accountability by using a four-step process of observation reflection synthesis and replication of effective teaching practices. Finally the author discusses the role of local state and federal policymakers and corrects the myths associated with No Child Left Behind.</p><p>As educators we have two choices Reeves says. We can rail against the system hoping that standards and testing are a passing fad or we can lead the way in a fundamental reformulation of educational accountability. <em>Accountability for Learning</em> gives readers the helping hand they need to lead the way to fair and comprehensive accountability.</p>