Graduate Program

Educational Administration

Degree Name

Education Specialist (EdS)

Semester of Degree Completion

1985

Thesis Director

David E. Bartz

Abstract

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this field study was to develop a model self-assessment process for local boards of education. Since 1977, this researcher has served as Assistant Regional Superintendent of Schools in Champaign and Ford Counties. From that experience the researcher determined that many local boards do not define and implement a formal self-evaluation process. Of the twenty-one school districts in Champaign and Ford Counties only three have planned and conducted a self-assessment program during the past four years. Since 1983, 57 per cent of the total school board membership of these districts has changed.

In 1985, the Illinois General Assembly passed significant school reform legislation which placed additional expectations on local school districts and the boards of education which govern those districts. Thus, this study was timely and relevant to the need for local oards to evaluate their effectiveness in providing leadership and direction for their local school districts.

Procedure

Although this field study was directed for use by the school districts in Champaign and Ford Counties, the researcher believes it may be modified and adapted to serve other school districts. The study was divided into four chapters. Chapter I provides background information on the problems and concerns confronting local school boards.

Chapter II provides a review of the research and literature concerning the role and responsibilities of local boards of education. Justification of the need for the development and use of a model to assess school board effectiveness is presented.

Chapter III presents the self-assessment model for use by the boards of education in Champaign and Ford Counties. This chapter identifies the important components which need to be evaluated for effectiveness in the self-evaluation process. These components are the basis for the questionnaire which is to be completed by the members of the local board of education. This chapter provides a guide for using the model and presents a list of recommendations which can be implemented by the local board to improve effectiveness.

Chapter IV provides the summary, findings and recommendations for the utilization of the self-assessment model by the local board of education.

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