Board Improvement Plans for Student Achievement (BIPSA) were initially developed by the Literacy and Numeracy Secretariat to support improved student outcomes in literacy and numeracy for elementary students. Over the last few years Board Improvement Plans for Student Achievement have been expanded to include all students from Kindergarten to Grade 12, including those with special education needs.
The annual Board Improvement Plan for Student Achievement is linked to School Improvement Plans and the Special Education Plan, and should include indicators and measures to support and document improved achievement by students with special education needs. PAAC on SEAC recommends that SEAC members be provided orientation and training about the School Effectiveness Framework and the Board Improvement Plan for Student Achievement in order for them to participate in the Board Improvement planning process.
Effective Practices to support SEAC involvement in Board Improvement Planning include:
- Appointing a representative of special education programs and services as part of the Board Improvement Planning for Student Achievement team.
- Holding regular presentations to SEAC about the annual Board Improvement Plan for Student Achievement process and the completed plan.
- Involving SEAC in the goal setting for improvement of outcomes for student’s with special education needs
- Involving SEAC in the development of a school board communication plan about the Board Improvement Plan for Student Achievement.
- Involving SEAC in the development of user friendly communication materials for the public about special education and the Board Improvement Plan for Student Achievement.