School Turnaround
Explore resources and key practices that can help under-performing schools make the shift from low-performing to "turnaround." 
- View a visual diagram of all four practices
- Watch a topic overview and download planning templates
- Listen to an expert
Explore the subtopics below to learn more about the recommended practices:
To learn more about the research underlying these practices, view the IES Practice Guide, Turning Around Chronically Low-Performing Schools.
Building Turnaround Principals' Knowledge and Skills
School Turnaround > Leadership > See How It Works
Two district leaders in Chicago Public Schools describe efforts to develop a strong cadre of school principals that have the skills to turn around the district's lowest-performing schools. This...
Resource Type
School Example
Establishing a Climate for Learning`
School Turnaround > Leadership > See How It Works
A new principal signals change and establishes a climate for learning. She implemented character education, hallway decorum, and interventions for struggling students. Teachers received...
Resource Type
School Example
"Caught You Teaching to the Norms" Notepad
School Turnaround > Quick Wins > See How It Works
Teachers and instructional leaders use this notepad during brief observations to note teachers' integration of the school's instructional norms into daily lessons: Objective, Checking for...
Resource Type
Sample Material
DEEPER
School Turnaround > Instruction > See How It Works
This sample material describes a schoolwide instructional model that contains the basic components of rigorous literacy-based instruction in all content areas. Related Files: Jackson...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Tennessee State Assessment Results Score Report
School Turnaround > Instruction > See How It Works
Staff collaboratively analyzes data reports such as these from the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) to determine strengths and weaknesses in student learning. Related...
Resource Type
Sample Material
December Walkthrough
School Turnaround > Instruction > See How It Works
This instructional coherence protocol guides administrator walkthroughs of elementary school classrooms. Administrators note evidence indicating that expectations of classroom environment and...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Teacher Teams Data Chart
School Turnaround > Instruction > See How It Works
Teachers at an urban elementary school use data charts in inquiry teams to review students' progress toward content area proficiency goals. The form helps teachers identify students who need...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Balanced Literacy Evaluation Checklist
School Turnaround > Instruction > See How It Works
Teachers use this checklist to ensure they adhere to a balanced literacy curriculum. The checklist addresses expectations for conducting read-alouds; facilitating shared, independent, and guided...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Curriculum Map
School Turnaround > Instruction > See How It Works
Teachers use curriculum maps, like this K-5 sample, to plan the year's instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. Related Files: Young Scholars' Academy...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Professional Action Plan and Year-End Goals Evaluation
School Turnaround > Instruction > See How It Works
At one elementary school, teachers and the principal periodically meet to discuss progress toward goals for content, environment, and professional development. Teachers use this form to note their...
Resource Type
Sample Material
ELA Goal-Setting Plan
School Turnaround > Instruction > See How It Works
Students use this tracker to set short- and long-term goals and monitor their own progress in English language arts. Students identify the skills they need to develop, and teachers hold periodic...
Resource Type
Sample Material
Homework Log
School Turnaround > Instruction > See How It Works
Parents are required to sign and return the Homework Log that outlines the daily homework for the week. This log allows parents, students, and teachers to be knowledgeable about what is expected of...
Resource Type
Sample Material
