System For Instructional Improvement

Adapted from: Cobb, Jackson, Henrick & Smith (2018). 

Systems of Instructional Improvement. Harvard University  Press

A Vision for Excellent Instruction 

The System for Instructional Improvement is rooted in a clear vision for excellent instruction. In order to achieve the vision and improve the school, all the other components of the system must be focused and connected to the center. This vision is the basis for the work of teachers within the system and provides coherence. Each part of the system allows teachers to practice and to learn how to improve their instruction.

Existing within a Culture of Achievement 

The System for Instructional Improvement exists within a larger framework for building and sustaining a Culture of Achievement. The scholarship regarding a Culture of Achievement comes from the work of Dr. Theresa Perry, who developed a series of indicators towards a definition of a Culture of Achievement. The indicators describe all the conditions that must exist in order to cultivate a culture of achievement for Black LatinX students in schools. Even though this text specifically talks about high achievement for Black students, these indicators also support high achievement for marginalized and students of color more broadly.  In a school with a strong Culture of Achievement, all members of the school community compellingly demonstrate, through actions, words, policies, and priorities, the belief that students are intellectuals and people of strong character. Additionally, membership in the school community inherently means being an achiever;  all students are authentically and intellectually engaged in learning and see themselves and each other as achievers. 

Vision for Excellent Instruction 

The vision for excellent instruction both defines what is taught and how it is taught. It is essential that the vision be rooted in the standards and content students must master. The vision should be clearly defined and shared in order for it to drive all the instructional work of the school.