Reimagining Educator Roles

Reimagining Educator Roles

Opportunities & Recommendations

What would it take to accelerate more widespread and impactful adoption of new approaches?

More adoptable models

We found that the current availability of adoptable models doesn’t match the range of models we see schools generating on their own; the field needs more evidence-based, adoptable models that schools can adapt to their local contexts. We identified a number of “frontier models” that, with strategic investment, could contribute to a more robust landscape of adoptable models.


More technical assistance for schools

Schools need support in three areas:

  • Model adoption/adaptation
  • Strong implementation
  • Codification for sharing

Ecosystem flexibilities and incentives

While state flexibilities matter, we observe that the primary catalyst for change is a visionary leader. We need system shifts that not only allow the boldest and bravest leaders to pursue new visions, but catalyze change in communities everywhere. Those catalysts include:

  • State-funded design and implementation support
  • Revised educator preparation programs
  • Policy flexibilities around class size, calendar, and certification
  • Templates for collective bargaining agreement modifications
  • Policy-focused intermediaries

Transcend is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that operates nationally.