SCALING-UP REFORMS ACROSS A SCHOOL DISTRICT

Abstract

Each pendulum swing in the debate over how best to teach reading and writing calls for large-scale systemic changes. For the most part, however, the field of education has paid little attention to the full array of complexities involved in large-scale replication of curricular changes and other new directions for school-based interventions. Such neglect has contributed to the failure of many reforms. This article highlights a framework of general phases and specific steps for diffusion of major new approaches across a school district. The overlapping phases are seen as encompassing: (a) creating readiness, (b) initial implementation, (c) institutionalization, and (d) ongoing evolution. The discussion includes lessons learned in applying the framework.