This collection of papers and “toolkits” is meant to help districts and charter management organizations navigate through some of the most complicated issues facing school systems. These papers distill “best practices” from 10 urban districts and are supposed to serve as set of guidebooks that school leaders can adapt to fit their particular needs. The latest addresses the expansion of access to Advanced Placement courses. How can a school identify earlier qualified students, better train qualified staff, and help overcome financial barriers for students? Another takes up the logistics of school closures, from sample budgetary timelines to responsible reassignment of students and staff. These kits eschew ideology and rhetoric for common sense approaches to some tough organizational challenges, and may be worth the attention of your eyeballs. Check ‘em out here.
The Broad Foundation
2009