5600 R&P

EVALUATION OF PROGRAMS

5600 R&P

 5600.1

For centrally coordinated programs, self-evaluations should address the type and level of service provided, the number served, and success in meeting measurable goals designed to contribute to student success.  Results are to be used for future program planning.  This process is embedded in the performance-based budgeting process coordinated through the Department of Administrative Services (with technical support from the Department of Evaluation and Research).

For schools, self-evaluation can be accomplished through a review of state, Wake County Public School System, and school or classroom assessment results which are used to inform the school improvement process.  Specific evaluation of pilot efforts is encouraged.

5600.2                         

Selected schools and programs are expected to participate in district, state, and federal data collection efforts approved through the assistant superintendent of evaluation and research.  Research projects sponsored by outside agencies must be approved through a review process coordinated by the Evaluation and Research Department

5600.3                         

The Superintendent will select projects for accountability or sunset review; these reviews focus specifically on the cost effectiveness of programs or services which have high costs or for which concerns have been raised.  Results and recommendations are provided to the board of education to help members decide whether such programs should be continued as is, modified, or discontinued.  Programs must respond with how they will address each report recommendation.

5600.4                         

At the time funding is requested, all external agencies requesting $5,000 or more of Wake County Public School System funds are required to provide a description of their intended efforts and an evaluation plan.  The request for funding sheet used by the Wake County Public School System Budget Office should be completed, which includes a program description, program goals, measurable indicators, and staffing information.  Requestors should also provide critical details about the program or service, a brief implementation timeline, and an evaluation plan listing data sources and methods by which effectiveness will be assessed.  If funds requested of the Wake County Public School System will supplement other funding, the program description should briefly describe the overall effort and funding and how Wake County Public School System funds would be used specifically.  (Also see Policy 8110.)  Requestors of amounts of less than $5,000 may be asked to complete some or all of the information described above.

If funded, staff of the external agency are responsible for carrying out the evaluation.  Evaluation and Research Department staff can provide the outside program staff with some basic information available through the Wake County Public School System central student information database as appropriate.  Any individual student information provided must be treated as confidential (see policy 6310.4).  Specifications for annual result summaries and data file requirements shall be obtained from the Evaluation and Research Department.  All materials published by the external agency regarding the program or service shall acknowledge the contribution of the Wake County Public School System.

  Issued: December 6, 1999