This report examines how Des Moines Public Schools improved academic performance and reduced achievement gaps through a partnership with external consultants. The study focuses on 22 demonstration schools that implemented leadership development, rigorous instruction, and student-led team learning.
Key findings include:Â
- Students gained additional learning days:
- All demonstration school students gained the equivalent of an additional 11 days of learning in reading and six days in math.
- High school students gained 61 extra days in reading and 42 in math.
- Achievement gaps narrowed for students:
- Black students saw a 7% gap reduction in reading and 6% in math.
- Special education students had a 6% reduction in reading and 5% in math.
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