BOBOdHHHHHH%H&X 2Z-clsjFLOM!`x(HHR[ (hh t2 HK'd5Ea l `/dh$TH/H/"d+`  #T[}uODSETSX&4d, t3x1&L1j#)*34TU   T89Q)bnoQ]^2jvw&'Z[\wxy 0    *! 2  T      L R ^ !       !    T !  9       Q e j      ) > C \ a o  - 2 K P ^              2 F K d i w      '      !    F4]&P  1A204Section I: PHILOSOPHYEvery school needs a carefully formulated, comprehensive statement of philosophy. Such a statement serves as the basis for forming school goals and learner outcomes and determining whether the school is in fact achieving its purposes. Through the process of self-study all phases of the school program are examined in order to determine if all are carried out in accordance with the stated philosophy.The evaluation of any institution must begin with the rationale for its existence. Declarations regarding its theological and educational basis and intended learner outcomes provide direction for organization and program. How these declarations are developed affects their validity for and ownership of these declarations by the school's constituents.The philosophy section is one of the basic sections upon which the evaluation rests. Therefore, it is especially important that the report of this committee be presented to the faculty and administration for approval or modification before the remainder of the study is started.OverviewEach school should develop its own philosophy statement consistent with the unique needs of the students and families it serves and consistent with the theology of The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod.Since a statement of philosophy is basic to the development of meaningful educational programs and the creation of an environment conducive to learning, it is importan]t that such statements be developed through the use of the democratic process; thereby reflecting the best thinking of the school staff and others in the community it serves.Schools having a written statement of philosophy need to review such a statement for current relevance and to determine whether it is consistent with the needs and characteristics of children currently being served by the school. A review of materials related to the development of a Lutheran school philosophy should include: Integrating the Faith: A Teacher's Guide for Curriculum in Lutheran Schools, Lutheran School Administrator's Handbook series, Planning for Lutheran Elementary Schools Series, and In His Hands, a manual for beginning and operating Lutheran early childhood programs. Refer to the Department of School Ministry "Resource Catalog".Schools developing an initial statement of philosophy may find some of the following suggestions helpful. The formulation process might include three stages of development. In the first, all participants would individually examine their beliefs concerning the overall purposes of Christian education in our society, the role of the Lutheran school in the educational process, and the unique role of this particular school in light of the special individual needs of the students it serves.The second stage consists of a series of discussions focusing on desirable philosophy and objectives for this school. In this process complete agreement of all participants should not be anticipated, since each individual brings to the discussion his own personal biases and beliefs. It is important that divergent views expressed by participants be heard and considered. It is also desirable that a consensus or majority viewpoint be arrived at prior to the conclusion of this step.In the third stage, a committee of the participants should draft the statement of philosophy discussed by the group and submit it to them for modification or approval. At this point it may be desirable to submit the statement to the administration and school board for approval.Please respond to the following: A. How is the statement of philosophy reflected in the operation of the school, including administration, instruction, co-curricular activities, and learner outcomes? B. How are staff, students, parents and congregation members kept aware of the school's philosophy?Attachments: * Your school's mission statement, purpose, or philosophy. * Your congregations purpose/mission statement.Standards:Indicate the levels of agreement and implementation (A-Very high; B-High; C-Moderate or somewhat; D-Low; E-Very low) for each standard and explain your response.1:01 The school has a written statement of philosophy, mission, and/or purpose. Level of Agreement Level of Implementation Comments:1:02 The statement of philosophy (mission, purpose) is rooted in Holy Scripture and is in agreement with the Lutheran Confessions. Level of Agreement Level of Implementation Comments: 1:03 The school statement of philosophy is based upon and is in agreement with the operating congregation's statement of purpose and/or mission. Level of Agreement Level of Implementation Comments:1:04 The statement of philosophy was developed in cooperation with church and school staff, school administration, board of education, parents, and congregation members. Level of Agreement Level of Implementation Comments:1:05 The statement of philosophy is communicated effectively to staff, parents, students, and operating congregation(s). Level of Agreement Level of Implementation Comments:1:06 The statement of philosophy has been formally approved by the appropriate church and school boards or committees. Level of Agreement Level of Implementation Comments:1:07 The statement of philosophy is reviewed periodically, and when appropriate, revised. Level of Agreement Level of Implementation Comments:1:08 The statement of philosophy reflects sound educational, theological, and psychological principles. Level of Agreement Level of Implementation Comments:1:09 The statement of philosophy is expressed in specific school goals, learner outcomes, and school activities. Level of Agreement Level of Implementation Comments: Please comment on the whole section on philosophy:A. What are the strengths of your philosophy/purpose/mission statement?B. What needs improvement?C. Briefly describe your plans for improvement.ZNDSET2HdMoe 6*DSET2HerNme"6*DSUMclsHDNISTYL4!JSTYL4h!%('$3(#8               !        )  HASH$K0k+. >9">L:QeWMBTBdSNAPBpTNAMlETBLl.W