In pursuit of truly effective, well-rounded programs, CLASSI evaluations include many elements that affect the total operation of each school. To achieve this comprehensive approach to evaluation, CLASSI is composed of three distinct components. Component I focuses on pupil academic achievement based on district standards and multiple measures. Component II is designed to rate the school’s effectiveness regarding specific elements of school site management, parent involvement and co-curricular programs based on quality indicators. Each of these elements is rated from “Superior” to “Needs Improvement.” Component III of the CLASSI system allows school and district personnel to examine each school’s policies, practices, programs and operating procedures through a self-study.

In the CLASSI system, each year, scores and ratings are tabulated and reported by the Department of Assessment. Schools earn the CUSD Exemplary School Award by reaching or exceeding set standards in both Component I and Component II. Moreover, schools use the results of CLASSI in setting their goals and planning for the improvement of their programs the following year. In this way, school personnel are continually challenged to exceed their own standards of excellence.