PUBLICATIONS

Beyond the Networked Improvement Community: Designing PLCs to Spread Learning from the Better Math Teaching Network

Beyond Network Improvement Community NME

Summer 2021

Inspired by the networked improvement community (NIC) concept (Bryk, Gomez, Grunow, & LeMahieu, 2015), researchers at the American Institutes for Research (AIR) launched the Better Math Teaching Network (BMTN) to address the problem of high rates of high school students disengaged from mathematics learning. Teachers in the BMTN employed
improvement science methods such as the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle to test student-centered routines that could result in deep engagement in algebra. In the fall of 2016, the Nellie Mae Education Foundation (NMEF) funded Partners for Network Improvement (PNI) to launch a developmental evaluation. The goal of the evaluation was to provide timely and actionable information to network leaders— the BMTN hub—and members, which would allow them to accelerate their capacity to meet the network’s aim.

#DisruptionDialogue happening in Martha’s Vineyard on August 4!
“The Nellie Mae Education Foundation really seeks to make visible the invisible. We are all in service of a high quality education for every child, hard stop. There are aspects of who is least well served that often we’re not talking about, that are often invisible to folks for whom the system has served really…
July 25, 2024
Reflections and the Path Forward
February 27, 2024
Our shared commitment to equity and justice
I hope this message finds you all well. As we prepare to power down for the year end break, I am reflecting on the tremendous work of this community.
December 21, 2023
Improvement Science as a Powerful Tool for Improving Classroom Instruction
The projects—which had high levels of participation and benefited from the support of a developmental evaluator—demonstrated that NICs are a viable approach to instructional improvement.
February 23, 2023
Black History is American History: Why We Must Continue to Teach the Truth
As a Taiwanese immigrant and parent of a bi-racial child, I believe it is important for every young person to have options in their learning. When I was growing up, I loved reading and pored over books.
February 16, 2023
The Wisdom in Transitions: A Time of Reflection in Gratitude
After four years at the Nellie Mae Education Foundation, and a tenure that includes serving as Vice President of Strategy and Programs and Interim President and CEO, the time has come for me to put a period at the end of this chapter.
January 19, 2023