In initiating reforms, new dollars are needed for start-up costs. Mediators from outside the system encourage the spread of high quality, comprehensive initiatives insofar as they can convene disparate groups, raise important issues in a bipartisan way, and broker information and assistance. Informed mediators from within the system are needed to translate policy into practice and to support implementation of reforms. Within-system mediators assist in connecting state and district leaders to strategies and best practices. They can devise realistic strategies for systems change and create a power base for reform.
Reform takes time.
It takes time to build constituencies for reform, change behaviors, build capacity, and conduct detailed assessments of current conditions as well as to benchmark changes over time. A Business Leader's Guide to Supporting Math and Science Achievement. Walking the line between judge and consultant. Chubin, D. E., Hamilton. CPRE Policy Briefs.