Aligning Educational Initiatives Rob Horner University of Oregon

Goals Define need for initiative alignment. Propose key features of effective alignment Provide one example from PBIS Provide template for future efforts.

Alignment New emphasis on “sustainability” and “efficiency” have heightened attention on the need for effective systems of alignment. McIntosh o One of the major variables to sustained implementation of effective practices is the introduction of new initiatives that either (a) compete with resources needed for sustained implementation or (b) contradict existing initiatives. o We know more about how to conduct small-scale “demonstrations” than how to take effective demonstrations and make the highly efficient “standard operation procedures.”

Key Features of Effective Alignment Align multiple initiatives at the organizational level where a common budget authority exists. Align multiple initiatives by using a common outcome measure to assess effectiveness. Align multiple initiatives by comparing combining the “core features” that are similar. o Compare fundamental assumptions o Start with common “core features” and compare the practices used to achieve these features. o Determine how to incorporate additional core features with efficiency Resolve Logic Model Conflict

Align Initiative A and B Selecting the Organizational Unit for Alignment Initiative A State Region District School Classroom Initiative B State Region District School Classroom Where do you Align? 1.Initiative A is mandated by the State Department with funds to district and Initiative B is selected and funded by the District School Board. 2.Initiative A is mandated by the Federal Government and Initiative B is mandated by the state legislature. Rule: Select the Smallest Organizational Unit that has budget authority for both initiatives.

Align Initiative A and B Selecting the Outcome Measure for Alignment Initiative A ODRs DIBELS ORF Math Facts State Reading Assessment SEL Other Initiative B ODRs DIBELS ORF Math Facts State Reading Assessment SEL Other Where do you Align? 1.Initiative A focuses on building K-5 reading fluency. Initiative B focuses on literacy error correction. 2.Initiative A focuses on gender harassment and Initiative B focuses on gang violence. Rule: Select one outcome measure for both initiatives. Preferably a progress monitoring measure

Align Initiative A and B Define and link core features for Alignment PBIS 3-5 School-wide expectations Formal reward systems Formal consequences for problem behavior Data system for assessing fidelity Data system for assessing impact. Bully Prevention School-wide Expectations Teach Response to Bullying Behavior Exaggerate reward for appropriate behavior Immediate consequences for bullying Recruit help Rule: Separate “core features” from practices. Select common core features, link professional development.

Logic Models Matter Consider not only what is being recommended but the assumptions about WHY recommendations should work. o Remember nearly all initiatives have a useful contribution Initiatives with conflicting logic models are more difficult to align. o Discovery Learning vs. Explicit Instruction o Teach emotions to guide behavior vs. Teach the Behaviors you Want. o Rewards damage intrinsic motivation vs. Rewards build intrinsic motivation o Facilitated Communication It is worth taking time to find common ground. o Restorative justice

Summary Introducing conflicting and competing initiatives is among the best ways to reduce sustained implementation of effective practices. The state, district or school leadership has the responsibility to align initiatives: o Alignment should occur at the level of the organization where common budget authority exists o Alignment requires selection of common outcome measure(s) o Alignment is best done by: Selecting core features Coordinating professional development (together not separate)

Your Examples Initiatives to improve early literacy Initiatives to improve social behavior Initiatives to reduce drop out