Standards Based Approach
Advance school improvement guided by forward-thinking, learner-centric performance standards
Best-in-class roadmap for excellence in education.
Advance school improvement guided by forward-thinking, learner-centric performance standards
The Greater Alaska Accreditation Association’s research-based performance standards are designed with a clear focus on achieving high-quality learning outcomes. By emphasizing practices that promote excellence, these standards serve as a foundation for various critical aspects of education, including accreditation, school and system improvement, and turnaround efforts.
The process of reviewing and updating these standards every six years ensures their relevance and effectiveness. This review is thorough and multifaceted, incorporating environmental scans, data from member institutions, current research, and emerging educational practices. The involvement of multiple peer and external reviews, followed by approval from the Greater Alaska Accreditation Association’s Local Accreditation Commission, underscores a rigorous commitment to maintaining and enhancing educational quality.
This approach not only ensures that the standards remain viable and pertinent but also reflects a dedication to continuously improving educational practices to meet the evolving needs of students and institutions.
Standards grounded in concepts that support student learning
The current performance standards stimulate thinking about schooling with significant new concepts and characteristics while building on the prior version to support ongoing improvement.
Learner-centered
GAAA’s new standards focus on the learner, describing the impact on the learning journey of processes and practices, which reflect the performance of the institution. Further, the standards emphasize student voice and agency.
Demonstration of equity
GAAA’s standards emphasize the expectation of fairness for all. We have always believed that students learn best in an environment where cultural differences are embraced and where no boundaries confine a student’s potential.
Learner well-being
Learning depends on more than skilled instruction. Institutions must address multiple aspects of learners’ circumstances and environment so that every learner can grow.
Empower and Facilitate Success in ALL of Alaska
Equity in Education is our priority, we are experts in bettering education for Alaskans and Alaska’s rural and austere communities.
Innovation and improvement for institutional success
These characteristics serve as our model for identifying and discussing secondary school and system quality. When your education institution works with GAAA for accreditation, certification, or other continuous improvement, your stakeholders can be assured that learners benefit from a high-quality education.
Culture of Learning
The institution’s focus on the challenges, joys, and opportunities for learning, and the coherence with its mission and vision
Engagement of Learning
The inclusion of all learners in the learning process, and their development of confidence and love of learning
Leadership for Learning
The responsibility of an institution’s leaders to influence and impact all aspects of the institution in positive ways
Growth in Learning
The growth of learners in the programs and curricula provided by the institution and their readiness to successfully transition to next levels of learning