Nominations may be made by any present or former member of the school staff or by district central office personnel

To give public recognition in Connecticut and nationally to an outstanding CAS member elementary and middle school that represent the best in the profession.

The chosen schools will receive recognition in the media, in CAS publications and at a CAS sponsored ceremony in their community.

1. All applicants for the School of the Year Award must be members of CAS and exhibit the following Best Practices:

• Evidence of a safe and healthy school environment.
• Evidence that the school involves parents and the community in supporting student learning and healthy development.
• Student services that go beyond those that are part of a typical school, i.e. clubs, activities, support services, and extra help for those who need it.
• Evidence that the school’s educational programs are consistently being reviewed and improved.
• A researched based curriculum with appropriate assessment grounded in standards.
• Instructional methods and strategies designed to prepare students to meet high standards.
• Teaming practices that drive instruction.
• Personalization of the school environment.
• Collaborative leadership and professional learning communities

2. Each of the nine criteria listed above must be individually addressed in narrative form. The total response must not exceed 10 pages (12-point font/single spaced).
3. The winning school will be invited to share exemplary practices and programs with other CAS member schools by offering CAS workshops, writing for CAS publications, and/or welcoming visitors to their school.
4. Nominations may be made by any present or former member of the school staff or by district central-office personnel.
5. Previous winners may not apply for a period of five years and must clearly show significant change from the previous application. Finalists {schools receiving site visits} are encouraged to re-apply for this award and may do so one full school year following the site visit. Schools not selected as finalists are welcome to re-apply at any time.