Throughout my career in education, I have had the privilege of working with schools and districts that were struggling to meet basic standards. I have seen firsthand the challenges that come with low performance, and I have also seen the incredible potential that exists when the right strategies are put in place. Elevating under-achieving schools is not easy, but with the right approach, transformation is possible.
Focus on Culture First
The first step in turning a struggling school around is addressing the culture. Culture is the set of values, beliefs, and behaviors that define a school community. In underperforming schools, the culture is often shaped by low expectations, frustration, and a sense of resignation. Changing this culture is the foundation for all improvement.
I have found that leaders must model the values they want to see. If you expect staff to be professional, prepared, and student-focused, you must demonstrate those same behaviors. If you expect students to be responsible and motivated, you must communicate that belief clearly and consistently. Culture sets the tone for everything else in the school. Without a positive, high-expectation culture, even the best instructional strategies will struggle to take hold.
Set High Expectations for Everyone
High expectations are critical for students, teachers, and parents. Students need to know that you believe in their ability to succeed and that effort and achievement are expected. Teachers need clear guidance and accountability for instructional quality, classroom management, and student outcomes. Parents must understand their role in supporting learning at home and in the school community.
In my experience, expectations must be consistent and reinforced every day. Students, staff, and parents should all know what is required and understand that there will be support to help them meet those standards. Setting high expectations is not about demanding perfection. It is about creating a culture where growth, learning, and accountability are the norm.
Build Strong Relationships
Leadership is not just about policies and procedures. It is about people. Relationships are the glue that holds improvement efforts together. Teachers are more willing to embrace change when they feel valued and supported. Students are more likely to work hard when they feel respected and understood. Parents are more engaged when they feel welcome and included in their child’s education.
I have always prioritized visibility and open communication. Walking the halls, visiting classrooms, and attending student events are simple but powerful ways to build trust. Listening to concerns, celebrating successes, and acknowledging effort shows that you care about the people in your school. Strong relationships create the foundation for collaboration and shared commitment to improvement.
Focus on Instructional Excellence
Once the culture is strong and expectations are clear, attention must turn to instruction. Effective teaching is the most important factor in student achievement. In underperforming schools, this often means providing targeted professional development, coaching, and feedback for teachers. Observing classrooms, analyzing student work, and using data to guide instruction are essential practices.
I have seen schools improve when teachers are supported in refining their craft. This support must be paired with accountability. Staff need to know that high-quality instruction is expected and that their growth is a priority. When teachers are equipped and empowered, students benefit directly.
Engage the Whole Community
No school exists in isolation. Elevating under-achieving schools requires engaging parents, community organizations, and local leaders. Parents are critical partners in reinforcing learning at home. Community organizations can provide mentoring, enrichment programs, and additional resources. Local leaders can help create opportunities and support for students beyond the classroom.
Community engagement must be intentional. Schools should communicate regularly with parents, celebrate student achievements, and invite the community to participate in school life. When the entire community is involved, the school’s culture and expectations extend beyond the building, creating an environment that supports student success.
Monitor Progress and Adjust
Improvement is not linear. Strategies must be continuously monitored, evaluated, and adjusted. Collecting and analyzing data on academic performance, attendance, discipline, and engagement allows leaders to see what is working and what needs refinement. Feedback from staff, students, and parents provides valuable insight into the effectiveness of initiatives.
Flexibility is important, but the commitment to high expectations and cultural transformation must remain constant. Successful schools do not abandon their standards; they adapt strategies to ensure that standards are met. Continuous improvement is a hallmark of schools that rise from underachievement to excellence.
Celebrate Successes
Finally, celebrating successes is a vital strategy in school transformation. Recognizing improvements, whether big or small, reinforces the behaviors and practices that lead to growth. Students feel motivated when their progress is acknowledged. Teachers feel encouraged when their efforts are noticed. Parents feel proud when they see their children succeeding.
Celebration builds momentum and reinforces a culture of achievement. It reminds everyone that change is possible and that their efforts matter. In struggling schools, celebrating success is just as important as addressing challenges.
Elevating under-achieving schools and districts is challenging, but it is also deeply rewarding. The strategies I have outlined—building a strong culture, setting high expectations, fostering relationships, focusing on instruction, engaging the community, monitoring progress, and celebrating successes—work because they address both the people and the practices that determine school success.
I have witnessed schools transform from struggling institutions into thriving communities where students are motivated, staff are engaged, and parents are partners. The journey requires commitment, patience, and persistence, but the outcomes are worth every effort. Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, and every school has the potential to achieve excellence when the right strategies are in place.