Implementation and Impact of School Improvement Grants in South Carolina

• In Event: Examining Influences of School Effectiveness and School Improvement

Abstract

This research incorporated multiple studies to explore the implementation and impact of School Improvement Grants (SIG) in South Carolina. Through a mixed methods analysis of multiple data sources collected at different stages of SIG implementation and a longitudinal case study of the 13 SIG schools, this study revealed important findings. Stakeholders, administrators, and teachers reported positive views of SIG impact and implementation. In comparison with the baseline data, SIG schools made slight improvement in student achievement and notable improvement in school climate in the implementation years. SIG schools demonstrated differences regarding their implementation strategies and progress made. The findings contribute to the literature about school improvement, the evaluation of SIG effectiveness, and future strategies for school improvement.

Authors

• Xumei Fan, University of Northern Iowa

• Leigh D'Amico, University of South Carolina

• David Long, South Carolina Department of Education