They did not seek to reform one aspect of the curriculum or a few supplemental programs. Instead, they sought to improve every facet of the school in a manner that would lead to the academic success of each student. Other federal education programs should be examined to determine how they might be strengthened through an emphasis on the principles of comprehensive school reform. Use legislation, policy, and technical assistance to help educators create regular opportunities for true professional development. Educators in the nine schools exhibited a true sense of professionalism.
Professional development needs to be completely reconceptualized.
In the nine schools, professionalism was developed as teachers spent time regularly planning, working, and learning with each other. Provide resources for increasing the quantity of time made available for instruction. Although the nine schools made excellent use of the school day, they increased the likelihood that all students would achieve state standards by increasing the amount of instructional time available to students. State and federal resources should support efforts to increase the quantity of time made available for instruction. Strengthen legislation and provide technical assistance to encourage schools to build the capacity of teachers and parents for increasing parental involvement at school.