Resources

This report highlights the findings from a research study conducted by the Geo Leads and WestEd team in California. The study identifies effective practices for providing differentiated assistance (DA) to school districts across the state. DA refers to a process or approach that provides targeted support and resources to local education agencies (LEAs) in order to improve educational outcomes for specific student groups or indicators. It involves tailoring assistance based on the unique needs and challenges of each LEA, with the goal of promoting equity and addressing disparities in student achievement.

The study consisted of two components: mixed-methods research and a statewide survey of county offices of education (COEs). Nine COEs were identified as having DA-eligible school districts with positive student outcomes that exceeded statistical expectations. Detailed interviews with representatives from the nine exceptional COEs, recognized for surpassing expected student performance metrics, reveal the promising practices underpinning their success. A comprehensive survey of all 58 COEs across the state supplements these findings, painting a statewide picture of effective DA implementation. The findings from both components are summarized in this report.

The report identifies six key themes: building a positive relationship with each LEA and becoming a trusted partner, ensuring that DA is truly value-added and expands LEAs’ resources, connecting DA to the classroom, coaching local LEAs in the use of continuous improvement tools and processes, supporting effective implementation of improvement strategies, and improving system coherence and alignment of initiatives. These themes serve as a guide for effective DA practices and are further exemplified through specific vignettes that illustrate how these themes were applied within different COEs.

This report is an indispensable resource for COE leaders dedicated to refining their approach to DA with the aim of bolstering the capacity of LEAs to achieve and sustain positive student outcomes. By sharing insights from successful practices and fostering a spirit of collaboration, this study contributes to the continuous effort to elevate educational support and address the nuanced challenges faced by districts throughout California.