Our Approach

We realize that how we do our work is as important as what our work is about. As we embark on a new strategic direction, we are making five commitments:


Make it new.We’ve learned that the change we seek requires invention — the components the system needs do not exist in any coherent, practical form. Research, development and innovation are necessary to build the tools that will transform public education.
Make it coherent.We are systemic and we address root causes. Piecemeal efforts — while sometimes inspiring — cannot change whole systems. Without systemic change, world-class education cannot be delivered at scale.
Make it real.To bridge the gulf that separates research from practice, our approach is user-centered, focusing on the critical problems faced by district leaders. It is also embedded, so that collaborative problem-solving and the capacity for innovation and design occur and are sustained within the district.
Make it smart.Transforming education requires resources from both within and beyond the field of education. Our approach is multi-disciplinary and cross-sector. In this way, new insights and understanding contribute to an expanding knowledge base of ways to improve public education.
Make it work for kids.Our goal is to ensure that all students in our public education system graduate with the knowledge, skills and experiences they need to enter college and the work force and thrive in the 21st century. Everything we do is focused on building tools that transform teaching and learning for these students.