Introduction to SAS (SAS101)

The Pennsylvania Standards Aligned System (SAS) is a collaborative product of research and good practice that identifies six distinct elements which, if utilized together, will provide schools and districts a common framework for continuous school and district enhancement and improvement.

Much research has been conducted as to what makes a great school. There are many intangible components; however, research supports the notion that great schools and school systems tend to have six common elements that ensure student achievement: Standards, Assessment, Curriculum Framework, Instruction, Materials & Resources, and Safe & Supportive Schools.  This course introduces these six components of SAS as well as how to utilize the SAS Portal to maximize instructional effectiveness and provide targeted resources for individual students that are standards-based, promote active engagement, and reflect effective instructional strategies.

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Topic A:  SAS and Portal Overview

Topic B:  The Six Elements of a Standards Aligned System

Topic C:  Teacher Tools in Depth

Course Outcomes:

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Identify the six elements of a Standards Aligned System.
• Discuss the intent of a Standards Aligned System and explain how the elements of a Standards Aligned System can improve student achievement.
• Compare the different functions within the Standards section and practice using the functions for varied purposes.
• Identify and navigate the various components of the Curriculum Frameworks for a variety of subject areas and grade levels and identify ways to use these frameworks to inform instruction.
• Review resource materials related to Assessments.
• Create customized student assessments using released test items aligned to PA Standards and Eligible Content.  
• Identify the different types of resources contained in the SAS Materials & Resources section.
• Search and identify Materials & Resources aligned to PA Standards and Eligible Content relevant to their assignments and select items to store in their personal ePortfolios.
• Identify and find resources in the Instruction section that demonstrate effective instructional strategies as well as offering suggested interventions appropriate for their students.
• Understand the three components of Safe & Supportive Schools.
• Locate the materials and resources that support the components of Safe & Supportive Schools.
• Upload materials to their personal ePortfolios as well as add and delete folders within the ePortfolio.
• Using the My Website tool, build a website to post announcements and store relevant materials and resources to enhance home-school communications.  
• Join a SAS Professional Learning Community and participate in the Communities, Blogs, and Forums that are available in the SAS Professional Learning Communities relevant to their grade level/subject area or educational role.
• Utilize the Teacher Tools to support personal and professional growth.
• Identify ways to address the needs of all learners.
• Explain the dynamic quality of SAS and its ongoing enhancements.