Network-based continuous improvement in education¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · 7 claims (4 for, 2 mixed, 1 against) · 3 studies (3 causal), q2–q3 · 0 of 3 report an effect size · 6 claims rest on one study

Description¶

Network-based continuous improvement (CI) is an approach in which "a network of schools using CI to iteratively test and refine strategies that address a common challenge while learning from one another." Schools within a network collectively identify a shared problem, test improvement strategies iteratively, and exchange findings with peer institutions. The Gates Foundation applied this model at scale through the NSI initiative, funding intermediary organizations to lead 34 networks across the country from 2018 to 2025.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• intermediary organizations to lead and coordinate the network
• schools must share a common challenge to address through iterative testing

Constraints¶

• effects varied substantially across NSI grade-level types, with some networks showing null results on all prioritized outcomes

Target Learners¶

• middle school students
• high school students

Target Learning Objectives¶

• math achievement
• course passing
• grade point average
• FAFSA completion
• college readiness

Claims¶

• 8Th Grade On Track Nsi Math Percentile Gain [+M]
• 9Th Grade On Track Nsi Gpa Improvement [+M]
• College Ready On Track Nsi Null Outcomes [~M]
• Postsecondary Enrollment Nsi Fafsa Gains No Enrollment Change [+W]
• 8th-grade on-track NSI did not improve ELA test scores, attendance, or suspension rates [-W]
• 9th-grade on-track NSI improved course pass rates by 3 to 4 percentage points but did not reduce suspension rates [+W]
• Most schools laid CI groundwork (72 percent root cause analysis), but fewer than two-thirds tied change ideas to their theory of practice improvement, and equity attention centered on achievement rather than access, identity, or agency [~W]

Related Theories¶

• NSI conceptual framework: intermediary-led school networks using equity-centered continuous improvement to improve on-track outcomes

Examples¶

• Support deep CI implementation through capacity inventories, gradual-release coaching, structured collaboration opportunities, and student voice

Key Sources¶

• Matthew Johnson, Naihobe Gonzalez, Jeffrey Max, Tareena Musaddiq, Sophia Seifert, Michelle Bennett, Ren Schlosser. (2026). Evaluation of the Networks for School Improvement (NSI) Initiative: NSI Impacts on Students and the Aspects of NSI Implementation Related to Impacts: Final Report. Gates Foundation. https://www.mathematica.org/publications/evaluation-of-the-networks-for-school-improvement-initiative-student-outcomes-final-report