State Education Department outlines new school turnaround pilot program details

The State Board of Education in Tennessee is launching an ambitious four-year school turnaround pilot program aimed at revitalizing five priority schools across the state. Assistant Commissioner Robin Cupp presented the initiative during the November 21, 2024, workshop, outlining its goals and operational framework.

The program, established by the General Assembly in February, allows selected schools to collaborate with external turnaround experts and local committees to develop innovative strategies for improvement. Cupp emphasized that the success of the pilot will be evaluated by comparing student performance outcomes at the pilot schools with those of non-pilot priority schools.

Key components of the program include the formation of a school turnaround committee, which consists of local school board members, parents, teachers, and school leaders. This committee will drive the development and implementation of tailored turnaround plans, ensuring that the unique needs of each school are addressed.

Cupp highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making, with turnaround experts tasked to analyze various aspects of school performance, including academic achievement, culture, and governance. The program also incorporates a model school turnaround plan developed in partnership with WestEd, which serves as a flexible template for schools to adapt based on their specific circumstances.

The pilot program is designed to foster innovation, allowing schools to utilize allocated funds creatively to implement new strategies. However, turnaround experts will only receive full payment if the schools meet specific exit criteria, adding an incentive for effective performance.

As the program progresses, the Department of Education will provide annual updates to the General Assembly, ensuring transparency and accountability in the initiative's implementation. This pilot program represents a significant step towards improving educational outcomes in Tennessee's most challenged schools, with the potential for broader implications across the state.