“SMART” stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Results Orientated & Relevant and Time-bound, and is a useful reminder of how to write a top quality goal. Here is what it means…
Specific – your goal should have its expected outcome stated as simply, concisely and explicitly as possible. This answers questions such as; how much, for whom, for what?
Measurable – a measurable goal has an outcome that can be assessed and/or measured in some way.
Attainable – an attainable goal has an outcome that is realistic given the current situation, resources and time available. Goal achievement may be more of a “stretch” if the outcome is tough or there is a weak starting position.
Results Orientated & Relevant – a results orientated and relevant goal helps maintain focus on the mission or the “bigger picture.”
Time-bound – a time-bound goal includes realistic timeframes. Sometimes timeframes are imposed. When that is the case, carefully consider what is attainable within the imposed timeframe.
SMART Goal Worksheet: Sample
|
Specific
|
There will be significant improvement in all students’ (grades K-3) reading comprehension performance
|
|
Measurable
|
On the Kansas State Reading Assessment, the ITBS Reading Assessment K-3, and the District CRT Reading Assessment K-3.
|
|
Attainable
|
This goal is possible in the time and percentage indicated..
|
|
Results Orientated & Relevant
|
85% or more of our students will perform at or above “meet standards” on the Kansas State Reading Assessment at all grade levels in which the assessment in given.
|
|
Time-bound
|
By Spring 2008
|
Goal: By Spring 2008, 85% or more of our students will perform at or above “meet standards” on the Kansas State Reading Assessment in the 3rd Grade.