Spark STRATEGY LABS

Why it matters:

When teams have a shared understanding of what effective effort looks like, they are more focused, aligned, and strategic in their work. This clarity supports coherent planning, collective ownership, and purposeful progress.

What is looks like in a Strategy Lab:

• Investigate improvement pathways and define what effective effort looks like

• Facilitate data-informed dialogue to surface patterns and impact

• Develop a shared vision of what “excellence” looks like

• Analyze artifacts, data, and case studies

• Set actionable goals with clear benchmarks

• Map out next steps, responsibilities, and success measures

Why it matters:
When educators believe in their collective ability to make a difference, they are more likely to take initiative, collaborate effectively, and adopt high-impact practices. Grounded in UDL and RBT principles, this kind of culture fuels inclusive, student-centered learning and continuous improvement.

What it looks like in a Strategy Lab:

• Reconnect to mission and purpose through structured reflection

• Re-energize faculty & strengthen a sense of shared purpose

• Identify and amplify strengths in current practice

• Engage in protocols that promote voice, belonging, and collaboration

Why it matters:
Strong systems don’t happen by accident—they are intentionally designed to support effective teaching and equitable student outcomes. Grounded in UDL’s focus on removing barriers and RBT’s emphasis on clarity and consistency, this work helps schools build structures that empower both students and faculty.

What it looks like in a Strategy Lab:

• Map and analyze current systems (e.g., feedback loops, student support, internal PD)

• Identify gaps, redundancies, or points of friction

• Co-design solutions that increase coherence, transparency, and alignment

• Use scenario testing to anticipate impact across stakeholder groups

• Develop clear communication plans and next steps for implementation

Why it matters:
When departments, divisions, and individuals work in isolation, even strong efforts can lose impact. Building structures for effective collaboration ensures that systems, supports, and instructional practices align to benefit all learners.

What it looks like in a Strategy Lab:

• Map team roles and uncover points of overlap, handoff, or disconnect

• Define norms and expectations that strengthen communication and collaboration

• Establish protocols for coordination, feedback, and reflection

Why it matters:
Transforming teaching practices requires more than inspiration—it takes structured experimentation, reflection, and iteration. Prototyping creates space for educators to test new strategies in a low-risk, high-support environment.

What it looks like in a Strategy Lab:

• Identify a challenge or opportunity tied to student learning

• Use frameworks like UDL to design instructional prototypes

• Develop testable hypotheses and quick-cycle pilots

• Analyze evidence of student impact

• Refine strategies and plan for broader implementation