Got Research? A Structure for Considering Research in District-Level Decisions

• In Event: Leadership at the District Level

Abstract

More and more, school districts are inclined to consider research when making decisions. For example, state and federal funding requirements often call for school districts to reference research. Consequently, the standards for what a district administrator needs to know about research have increased. Yet, district administrators lack models for how to factor in research while making decisions. This study develops a practical model for district administrators to use for considering research in their decision-making. Using the context of the Stanford University and San Francisco Unified School District partnership, this study examines three initiatives in 2010-2011 where district administrators used research to inform their decisions, and then outlines a step-by-step process for considering research in district decisions.

Authors

• Laura P. Wentworth, California Education Partners

• Ritu Khanna, San Francisco Unified School District