Analyzing Policy: Using the policy from Module 2, continue the policy analysis by completing

For the Session Long Project, you will read, analyze, and practice writing education-based policy that influences decisions being made in schools. Policies are written to assist in organizational direction and are an integral part of any education system. Go to the federal Department of Education website or your state’s Department of Education website and search for education policies.

Here are a few sample websites if needed:
Arizona State Board of Education: https://azsbe.az.gov/resources/policies-and-reports
California Department of Education: https://www.cde.ca.gov/re/lr/
Michigan Department of Education: https://www.michigan.gov/mde/0,4615,7-140-5373_5382---,00.html
U.S. Department of Education: https://www2.ed.gov/policy/landing.jhtml?src=ft

If you are in Higher Education, you may use this website to find federal policies related to Higher Education: https://www2.ed.gov/policy/highered/leg/edpicks.jhtml?src=rt

For Module 3: Analyzing Policy: Using the policy from Module 2, continue the policy analysis by completing

What are the strengths of the policy?
What suggestions or recommendations do you have regarding the policy?
Reflection: How does reading, analyzing, and understanding policy help prepare you to be an educational leader? This part should include 1 or 2 citations/references.

Full Answer Section

         

Reflection:

Reading, analyzing, and understanding policies equip educational leaders with a deeper knowledge of the educational landscape. This knowledge informs decision-making, resource allocation, and the development of effective strategies to address the needs of students, teachers, and the school community as a whole. Through policy analysis, leaders gain a broader perspective on the system, allowing them to advocate for policies that promote equity and quality education for all.

(Citation):

  • Education Commission of the States. (2018). Policy and Practice in Early Childhood Education: A State-by-State Analysis 2018. Denver, CO: Author. Retrieved from https://www.ecs.org/

This resource provides valuable insights into the diverse approaches states take to early childhood education, highlighting the importance of analyzing specific policies in their broader context.

Sample Answer

         

Analyzing an Education Policy: Using Arizona's K-3 Reading Program Policy (R7-2-318)

Policy: K-through-Three Reading Program (R7-2-318) by the Arizona State Board of Education (https://www.azed.gov/standards-practices/k-12standards/english-language-arts-standards) 1  

Strengths of the Policy:

  • Focus on Early Literacy: The policy prioritizes early literacy development, which is crucial for academic success throughout a student's educational journey.
  • Comprehensive Approach: The policy outlines various components for a successful K-3 reading program, including professional development for teachers, screening and intervention for struggling readers, and the use of evidence-based reading instruction.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making: The policy encourages schools and districts to utilize data collected from reading assessments to inform program improvement.

Suggestions and Recommendations:

  • Funding Allocation: The policy could be strengthened by specifying dedicated funding for implementing the K-3 reading program. This would ensure that schools and districts have the necessary resources to invest in high-quality early literacy initiatives.
  • Parental Involvement: While parental involvement is mentioned, the policy could benefit from outlining specific strategies and resources for engaging families in their child's early literacy development.
  • Diversity and Inclusion: The policy could be further strengthened by explicitly emphasizing the importance of culturally responsive teaching practices and incorporating diverse materials to cater to the needs of all learners.