FIVE PILLARS:
MAIS also share a core set of operating principles known as the Five Pillars.
High Expectations: MAIS have clear and measurable high expectations for academic achievement
and conduct that make no excuses for students' backgrounds. Students, parents, teachers,
and staff create and reinforce a culture of achievement and support through a range
of formal and informal rewards and consequences for academic performance and behaviour.
More Time on Task: MAIS know that there are no shortcuts when it comes to success
in academics and life. With an extended school day, week, and year, students have
more time in the classroom to acquire the academic knowledge and skills that will
prepare them for competitive high schools and colleges, as well as more opportunities
to engage in diverse extracurricular experiences.
Power to Lead: The Heads of MAIS are effective academic and organizational leaders who understand that great schools
require great school leaders. They have control over their school budget and personnel.
School leaders must retain their autonomy while taking advantage of collective wisdom
and economies of scale. MAIS must identify, attract, develop, retain, and empower
the very best facilitators (teachers), so that every MAIS students receives first-rate
education.
Focus on Results: MAIS focus on high student performance on standardized
tests and other objective measures. Just as there are no shortcuts, there are no
excuses. Students are expected to achieve a level of academic performance. MAIS
teachers focus on developing students who not only make high test scores, but who
are also self-starting, critical thinkers who will succeed in college and the ever-changing
world.
Choice and Commitment: MAIS students, parents, and faculty elect their school
and voluntarily commit to its expectations. No one is required to attend or participate
in the life of a MAIS. Rather, stakeholders make and uphold a pledge to the school
and each other to put in the time and effort required to achieve success. Understanding
MAIS families in ALL communities and helping them cope with obstacles to success
is imperative.