De-implementation is a process of removing ineffective practices to make space for sustaining more impactful practices. De implementation is reducing or removing ineffective or unneeded practices. De-implementation allows for resource re-allocation, reduces confusion and mixed messages, and supports student outcomes.

By addressing school climate & culture, school leaders can increase educators' buy-in and support sustained practice.

Teachers have so much to do! Managing competing demands is one of the top barriers to sustained practice. Planning ahead can make the many demands that educators face more manageable and support sustained practice.

Implementing with fidelity is no easy task - we can’t assume current practice will improve student outcomes. Most educators - like most people - struggle to integrate a new practice into their existing routines. How can we help educators implement with fidelity? Support teachers. Monitor fidelity.

Coaching can help most educators learn and sustain new practices. It's a critical strategy for facilitating change in schools. But coaching can look very different - and it's not all effective. How it happens and what it entails really matters. Learn more about best practices in coaching for educators here.

When effective practices are sustained, students achieve better results, more quickly. School administrators can efficiently promote sustain practice by attending to process and context.

What is a positive implementation climate? One in which implementation policies and procedures encourage, cultivate, and reward practice use. Sustaining practices is a school-wide priority and supported through training and resources. Educators are open, adaptable, experienced, and recognized for their work.

Staff readiness is about reflecting on whether educators in your school are prepared to sustain practice. Staff readiness needs to be regularly evaluated given ongoing changes.

When we take the time to reflect on past practices, we are better able to plan for actionable, sustainable change in the future. Change isn't easy! Sustained practices requires continual evaluation, adaption, and support.

So, what is sustained practice? A sustained practice is implemented consistently and comprehensively over time. By deliberately supporting sustainment of effective practices, schools can capitalize on current efforts, increase efficiency, and improve student outcomes.

Paraeducators (or paraprofessionals) are critical partners in providing sustained practices to students, especially in special education. There is a mismatch between what we expect from paraeducators and the support they generally receive.

How do we keep up change over time? You can’t just hope! We need to monitor, support, and adapt. Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles are a way for school teams to promote sustained practice for the long haul.

It all begins with an idea.