1999_0125_packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

A standard is a statement of desirable practice as set forth by experienced and recognized professionals. Standards are an indirect measurement of effectiveness, using the cause and effect approach, or perhaps more appropriately stated "IF ... THEN," IF one acts in a certain gray, THEN it is expected that there will be a certain result. So, if a desirable standard is practiced, then a good outcome should be forthcoming; if an agency engages in those standards which are recommended, then there should be a quality operation. standards enable evaluation by comparison; comparing ghat is within an agency operation with what is accepted by professionals as desirable. These standards are not a quantitative measure of the local availability of funds, lands, personnel, et al, but of operational practices which are desirable to provide adequate park and recreation services and programs for the population to be served. Standards are NOT maximal goals, but minimal and should be used as a guide to upgrade to the desirable practices. Standards are not a degree of quality index, that is, cannot be used for comparative purposes of competition among agencies. Standards are not a cure-all for agency problems, but certainly conducting an agency's operation in accord with standards can prevent many problems and lead to high quality services and program. Standards can be a dynamic force for change by stimulating park and recreation professionals and the corporate policy body toward better and safer services, programs, and innovations. These Standards should be distinguished from other types of standards which address specific elements, such as open space standards which are population-based and playground equipment standards, which are product-based. These Standards are comprehensive and require much self-assessment and study. They are not a quick- check, self-evaluation instrument. The focus-of the Standards is on the operational system overall, rather than on specific elements of services or programs. The Standards are organized into ten major categories: Agency Authority, Role and Responsibility} Planning} Organization and Administration; Human Resources; Finance (Fiscal Policy and Management); Program and services Management; Facility and Land Use Management; safety and Security; Risk Management; and Evaluation and Research. Each category is composed of a varying number of standards. The categories are not weighted as to importance, but all are essential to quality operations. The process for re-accreditation includes: 1. Completion of a departmental self-assessment. (currently 'in progress) 2. Filing the assessment report with the National Accreditation Office.. Due May 1999 3. Hosting a site visitation team. (tentatively scheduled for June 10-12, 1 999) 4. Review by National Accreditation commission. (October 19919)