Continuous Improvement Approach

We use Proving Ground’s continuous improvement process to help our partner districts better understand their challenges by using evidence to rapidly identify and implement solutions that work for students, families, and schools. Plus, by joining a network of districts with shared challenges, partners expand their knowledge of what works—and what doesn’t—for students and families.

PG Cycle Graphic

Understand the Challenge

We begin our work by analyzing partner districts' data diagnostics and conducting interviews with district and school staff. Through this process, we uncover key issues and trends that contribute to the challenge each district seeks to address.

Identify Potential Solutions

NCRERN then leads districts through a process of uncovering the root causes of its challenges within a topic area (e.g., attendance, postsecondary readiness, or postsecondary entry). We help districts identify potential solutions and work with the district teams to prioritize these solutions.

Test the Solution(s)

NCRERN helps districts design and implement the chosen solution(s) in a measurable way. During the testing phase, we provide insights on implementation and help districts troubleshoot challenges.

Examine Findings and Determine Next Steps

Once results are available, NCRERN presents these to districts and recommendations for how to act on the findings. If the solution is producing the desired results, the district may decide to scale up. If the solution is underperforming, the district may decide to make adjustments and continue testing, or it may decide to stop implementation and try an entirely new solution.

Our Network: Strength in Numbers

Rather than relying on anecdotal advice or popular trends, network partners have access to real data from districts with shared challenges. While network partners may test different solutions due to varying capacity and context, all partners benefit from shared insights on what works and what doesn’t, enabling them to rapidly identify solutions. For a list of our partners, click here.