Making the Main Thing the Main Thing: A Learning-Centered Strategy for Jeffco Schools

Abstract

Since 2013 Jefferson County Public Schools (Jeffco) has undergone one of the most tumultuous periods in its history. Following this tumultuous period in which changes in leadership reflected opposite ends of an ideological spectrum, this capstone describes efforts to unite an organization and community to align its efforts and practices to those of the highest performing education systems. Alongside Jeffco’s new superintendent, Dr. Jason Glass, the capstone highlights successes and challenges in establishing a shared vision for the community and organization and implementing a continuous improvement framework to operationalize an aspirational vision focused on improving student experiences and outcomes. The capstone focuses on efforts to transform student tasks to be more authentic, relevant, and engaging as the lever for improvement in the organization and sector. Highlighting the structural, human resource, political, and symbolic approaches necessary for success in a change effort that requires fundamental shifts in educator practices, the capstone advocates a break from structural efforts alone is necessary to build a sustainable movement led by prepared and motivated educators to meet the aspirations of the Jeffco community and American K-12 education sector.