With support from the Barr Foundation, CRPE is leading a two-year study investigating what enables and constrains transformative change that unleashes opportunity for every student in New England school districts.

In our prior New England research, we studied schools acting boldly to reimagine high school and prepare every student for a “good life” of their own design. But progress can stall without district leaders committed to making deeper, systemic shifts. District leaders face real constraints—from political polarization to funding threats and educator shortages. Still, transformation is both possible and urgent. 

This study will illuminate how district leaders are pursuing change, the barriers they encounter, and the strategies they use to overcome them. A clearer view of leadership will and skill — and where it’s underleveraged and undermined—can help unlock more effective, responsive school systems that serve every student.

The study will include:

• A survey for superintendents in New England states to understand how leaders are thinking about change, what strategies they’re pursuing, and what’s holding them back.
• In-depth interviews with district leaders focused on strategic plans and instructional visions, where we’ll explore the gap between aspiration and implementation.
• Close-up case studies on districts leading transformational change, where we’ll interview administrators, visit schools, and talk to educators and students to learn how change efforts are impacting classroom practice.