High School Reform

What It Is

High schools around the country are creating new learning environments to better meet the needs of a changing student population. Although some things essential to the high school experience remain—homeroom, pep rallies, football, the yearbook, detention, and the popular kids— schools around the country are working hard to become high-achieving schools that meet the diverse needs of students.

Why It Matters

Many school districts have undergone a significant demographic shift in recent decades. As cities continued to grow, the percentages of minority, economically disadvantaged, and at-risk students grew right along with them. High schools became larger and larger, and students began to feel disconnected from their school. Many schools have struggled in adapting to these changes, resulting in higher drop-out rates and other issues.

What We Do

SEDL supports educators in their attempts to improve their schools through a variety of means. We offer research-based professional development on implementing change and leadership. We also offer technical assistance and provide knowledge and resources educators can use when considering or beginning school reform.