Bridging Reform and Reality: How Education Service Providers Drive School Improvement

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 1:45 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Global Perspectives on Educational Change: Networks, Partnerships, and Equity in Action

Abstract

School reform is a complex process increasingly supported by education service providers (ESPs). This mixed-methods study examines the role of an ESP in facilitating the implementation of a whole-school reform initiative in four U.S. school districts. Interviews with ESP personnel identified key implementation strategies, common challenges, and the approaches used to address them. Survey responses from educators indicated strong awareness of and general satisfaction with the reform model, underscoring the value of sustained external support in driving system-wide change. This research contributes to the literature on school reform and ESPs by offering practical insights for those designing and supporting reform efforts.

Authors

• Rhea Rong Ren, National Institute for Excellence in Teaching

• Handrea A. Logis, National Institute for Excellence in Teaching

• Tanee Hudgens, National Institute for Excellence in Teaching

• Joshua H. Barnett, National Institute for Excellence in Teaching