Vision and Beliefs of the Chief State School Officers

As America's chief state school officers: We envision a system of schooling in each state that ensures high standards of performance for every one of our children and prepares each child to succeed as a productive member of a democratic society. We believe. . . Education is central to the preservation of American democracy. It is our responsibility to prepare each child to become a respectful, conscientious and productive citizen in an increasingly interdependent world. Education policy is primarily the responsibility of the states. Successful education practice requires the sustained and thoughtful input of parents, students, education professionals, business leaders, public officials and the community. Our responsibilities include securing resources, building the capacity of the system, and holding accountable for results those who implement and participate in the educational process in our states. We must, ourselves, be accountable for carrying out our responsibilities and achieving results. All children can learn to high standards if given the opportunity. It is our responsibility to provide, through our school systems, each child with that opportunity. Quality, effective education programs deep in content knowledge are necessary to develop lifelong learners with the skills and abilities to succeed. It is our responsibility to improve teacher capacity as a central strategy to developing lifelong learners and productive citizens. If all children are to be successful, then the schools must partner with parents and with community organizations that are also part of the support system for children and families. Academic needs cannot be considered in isolation from a child's need to be safe, to free from hunger and to be a part of a nurturing family and community. It is our responsibility to collaborate effectively with the other parts of this support system. More must be done at the state and local levels to support early learning for each child before the first day of kindergarten. It is our responsibility to work closely with those who provide early childhood education to assure families have access to quality programs.

Council of Chief State School Officers
One Massachusetts Avenue, NW · Suite 700
Washington, DC 20001-1431
voice: 202.336.7000 · fax: 202.408.8072

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document last updated 4/23/2009