Which of the following is a critical component of school accountability as per the ASCA standards?

Program evaluation and outcome measurement is a critical component of school accountability according to the ASCA standards because it allows schools and educators to systematically assess the effectiveness of their programs and initiatives. By measuring outcomes, schools can determine if their programs are meeting their goals and where improvements can be made. This data-driven approach strengthens accountability by demonstrating the impact of educational strategies on student progress and well-being, ensuring that resources are used effectively to support students’ needs.

In contrast to program evaluation and outcome measurement, standardized testing scores, while often used to gauge student performance, do not provide a comprehensive view of the effectiveness of school programs or initiatives. Parental involvement rates, although important, are more about engagement than direct accountability for educational outcomes. Teacher performance reviews can contribute to accountability but focus primarily on individual teacher effectiveness rather than the broader assessment of school programs as required by ASCA standards.