Developing a Vision of Leadership and Accountability

I find the notion of accountability a very powerful notion for while proving myself accountable I find value in what I do. By reviewing my own work, by proving my own accountability I validify my own accomplishments, I feel proud of what I've done and have a clearer view of where I am going, my future goals and objectives. So, with this in mind, I found it very interesting that accountability is often thought of with negative connotations (K. A. Sirotnik, (May 2002). Promoting Responsible Accountability in Schools and Education. Phi Delta Kappan, 83 (9), 662-673.) Sirotnik goes on to talk of the need for "PRAISE not punishment" isn't this the notion behind our (Quebec) reform? To think of what/how our students are competent not the mistakes they make but how they move forward along the continuum? Or, as Sirotnik puts it "demonstrate publicly who students are, what they know, what they care about and are able to do, and what they can become.
When we do take the "moral stance that requires the courage to operate on the principle that equal is not necessarily equitable, that more resources will have to be distributed to the least advantaged schools and communities" as Sirotnik suggests I smile to myself and realise that this is the way my husband and I have tried to raise our children. Since they were very young we've told them that each of them gets what they need when they need it... for example, just because it's winter not everyone needs a new winter snowsuit or new skis, if last years fits then good. But, if one has outgrown or worn out their previous things then they will benefit from new 'stuff'. Schools also need different equipment and resources at differing times and some need more than others. The notion of equity is not equal but one of creating equity for all "in the long run" hence Sirotnik's comment that "responsible accountability systems will require a long-term focus." This notion of accountability can only be accomplished once we truly believe that "children have unlimited potentioal, capacity, propensity, and capability to become. The task of political infrastructures and school systems is to create environments within which this "becoming" is possible."
Hhhhmmmm....after over 20 years of professional employment in the education system in Quebec, after being an administrator and consultant for nearly 15 years I am embarassed to say that I was thrilled to read the Canadian Teachers' Federation's stance on accountability as published in the bilingual brochure "Canadians Talk about Schools and Accountability". I was not aware of thiese resolutions and agree with ALL!