An Organizational Assessment (OA) is a process of gathering and analyzing information collected from various stakeholders to assess a district's performance.  The assessment instrument consists of 7 core components and 57 elements that allow the assessment team to understand how the district is performing from a system's perspective.  The instrument is research-based and modeled after the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award as well as various state awards.

The seven core components used in assessing a district:

1. Leadership - strong, visionary, results-oriented leadership

2. Strategic Planning - alignment of action, resources, and results

3. Curriculum & Teaching - standards-based curriculum and powerful teaching

4. Stakeholder Engagement - active engagement of internal and external stakeholders

5. Stellar People - stellar teachers, board members, leaders, support staff who are continuously learning and growing

6. Effective and Efficient Processes - aligned and linked core business processes that support the system

7. Accountability - employee and student accountability

The OA is a way of systematically collecting data across the district.  Conducted by an experienced team, it allows the team to look beyond fortunate timing and the force of charismatic leaders.