Using Regional School Networks to Orchestrate Reform in California Middle Grades

This article describes the model used for implementing middle grade reform in California public schools and research evaluating the model. The model involved assigning clusters of 8 to 12 schools to 10 regional networks. Its underlying premise is that reform will be enhanced if schools are affiliated in networks with mutually supportive schools to provide ideas and problem-solving assistance. A regional network typically consisted of schools from multiple districts that were located in relatively close geographic proximity. Results of a 3-year evaluation that began when the model was implemented indicated that most educators, when supported by colleagues in their regional network, implemented multiple reforms. In particular, interdisciplinary teams (of teachers) were widely implemented, and the positive effects of team teaching were found to facilitate reforms in curriculum, instructional practices, and programs for at-risk students. Efforts to implement advisory programs were less successful. In all part...