District Assistance Team for Priority Services

The Center for School Improvement (Illinois CSI) is operated by the American Institutes for Research (AIR) in partnership with the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). The Illinois CSI will provide coordination of the Statewide System of Support (SSOS), including the various regional improvement efforts under ISBE’s existing network, to ensure that districts receive expert, timely and relevant assistance with an emphasis on closing achievement gaps and raising achievement in the all students group in districts receiving services. The District Assistance Team for Priority Service Coaches, with direction and support from a District Liaison for Priority Services, Area Assistance Directors and the Illinois CSI Manager for Priority Services, will provide direct support to ISBE-designated districts that receive Priority services through the SSOS.  District Assistance Team for Priority Service Coaches may work with up to five district leadership teams on planning, implementing, and refining their district improvement plans and strategies with an emphasis on turnaround and transformation principles at the district level. They will participate in and co-facilitate networked professional learning opportunities for assigned districts and provide follow-up coaching support.  In addition, they will connect district and school teams to appropriate SSOS resources and tools.