Defining a Comprehensive Aligned Instructional System

Author: Waters, L. B., O'Meara, K. W.
Publisher: Stupski Foundation
Publication Date: 2008, January
Full text available online at: http://www.stupski.org/documents/Defining%20CAIS_01-08.pdf

Abstract (written by WestEd)

To ensure that teachers have the necessary supports and empowerment to enable them to make effective instructional decisions, this report proffers the Comprehensive Aligned Instructional System (CAIS) model. CAIS includes aligning the different elements of the instructional system concurrently with aligning the distinct components of the systems that support instruction. Both these systems exist within the systems of site-level and district-level support.
The instructional system must align the following features:

  1. Curriculum and materials
  2. Instructional strategies
  3. Assessment and data
  4. Professional development
Aspects of district systems to be aligned are as follows:
  1. Accountability and planning
  2. Human resources
  3. Use of funds and operations
  4. Specialized student supports
  5. Technology
  6. Governance
The report provides examples of alignment from districts named in Lessons Learned in Systemic District Reform.



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