Marzano Resources Teams Up with NC Department of Public Instruction
Marzano Resources, a recognized leader in K-12 professional development, has embarked on a significant partnership with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. This collaboration aims to transform student outcomes in math, particularly within low-performing schools and underprivileged communities. Over the next five years, they plan to implement innovative educational strategies that promote a competency-based learning approach.
Focus on Low-Income and Low-Performing Schools
The initiative receives robust financial backing from the Golden LEAF Foundation, a nonprofit committed to enhancing economic opportunities within rural and tobacco-dependent regions. Out of a substantial $25 million grant, Marzano Resources will utilize $13 million to create two vital educational cohorts across the state.
The first cohort specifically targets 10 identified low-income schools dealing with historical challenges and low student performance in mathematics. Every participating school will receive personalized assistance tailored to address their unique needs. To ensure impactful change, intensive onsite services will be introduced, fostering an effective learning culture in math.
As part of this cohort’s development, each school will undergo a comprehensive needs analysis to craft a precise action plan. To facilitate continuous improvement, schools will benefit from six specialist-led onsite learning sessions each year, alongside roughly 20 days of personalized coaching spread over five years. This comprehensive framework aligns with the Marzano Resources High Reliability Schools (HRS) framework, aiming for HRS certification as a recognizable achievement for educational excellence.
Introducing Competency-Based Education
The second cohort encompasses schools not labelled as low-performing; instead, they seek to adopt a competency-based education model. These institutions will have the unique opportunity to engage with a custom version of the Marzano Mastery Approaches cohort. This opportunity also includes access to an extensive library of resources tailored for their use.
Through this initiative, additional coaching days will be available via Marzano Resources associates, ensuring that the execution of these newer education models is effective and supported. Both cohorts will partake in annual in-person meetings aimed at promoting networking, collaboration, and knowledge exchange amongst educators.
Marzano Resources Commitment
Terri Martin, the president of Marzano Resources, expressed gratitude for the collaboration, stating, "We are privileged to partner with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and the Golden LEAF Foundation to initiate meaningful changes statewide. Our mission is to empower North Carolina educators with proven strategies that enhance math outcomes and facilitate schools' transition to a model where every student’s success is paramount."
About Marzano Resources
Marzano Resources is dedicated to supporting K-12 educators in advancing student success. With a foundation based on Dr. Robert J. Marzano's extensive 50-year research journey in education, the organization provides comprehensive professional development offerings. These include customizable onsite training, various educational events, virtual coaching, insightful publications, and online courses aimed at enhancing teaching practices.
Marzano Resources has established itself as a thought leader in education, delivering innovative strategies across essential schooling domains, including curriculum development and personalized education strategies. Their programs, such as the High Reliability Schools framework and The New Art and Science of Teaching series, continue to shape the educational landscape for better student outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of Marzano Resources' partnership with NC DPI?
The partnership aims to improve student outcomes in mathematics in low-performing, low-income schools and to promote competency-based education in North Carolina.
How is the initiative funded?
The initiative is funded by a $25 million grant from the Golden LEAF Foundation, with $13 million allocated to Marzano Resources for implementation.
What is the significance of the High Reliability Schools framework?
The High Reliability Schools framework is designed to help schools achieve an effective learning environment that ultimately leads to better educational outcomes for students.
Who will benefit from the second cohort?
The second cohort will benefit schools that are not currently low-performing but are interested in adopting a competency-based education model.
What resources will schools have access to under the initiative?
Participating schools will utilize a specialized version of the Marzano Mastery Approaches and a comprehensive resource bank for educational improvement.
