EDC’s work with eight Rhode Island middle and high schools to improve student performance on state standardized tests has produced initial successes, according to Leslie Hergert of EDC’s Center for Family, School, and Community. EDC facilitators provide leadership development, analysis of test data, and teacher development. The work is mandated by the state to offer “corrective action” to schools whose test results have not adequately improved.

After the first year, schools showed improvement and success in three critical areas: function of the school-based improvement teams, involvement of department chairs in improving instruction, and use of student and school data. “Almost all of the school improvement teams attracted new and more diverse members, met more frequently, and focused more on teaching and learning,” says Hergert. “Schools have also learned to use district data to guide their instruction.” EDC’s work in the schools is funded for three years by the Rhode Island Department of Education.