Peer Learning Networks build connections among educators, researchers, and thought leaders to affect sustained change in education through improved policy and practice. Networks provide a support and advocacy structure as well as a common voice. Through a network, members can work together to address what they would otherwise have to address independently. Well-designed networks focus on relationship building, alignment of member goals and priorities, and activities that support member-driven outcomes. These activities may include identifying and addressing common issues, policy analysis, and disseminating research. RTI acts as a broker between agencies, filtering key content and summarizing information for members to support informed decision-making and intentional action. Effective networks provide value to its members through connection, sharing, learning, and collaboration.
RTI’s approach to developing and facilitating networks focuses on three overarching goals:
Solution Development – Members identify essential dilemmas, define outcomes, and collaboratively create and implement plans to address issues.
Professional Growth – Members deepen expertise and skill sets that improve student outcomes and contribute to the overall health and performance of schools, districts, agencies, institutions, and other organizations.
Network Performance – Networks are seen by members as providing significant value in the form of peer support, increased exposure to expertise and new learning, and the generation and sharing of resources that enhance their ability to address existing and future challenges.
Project Examples
RTI partners with innovative schools, districts, states, and organizations to address education challenges. Here we highlight two of those partnerships.
Peer Learning Network Experts
Our Education Services team is led by former teachers, principals, administrators, policy experts, and strategists who have the practical experience to translate ideas into action.
Frank McKay
Education Consultant
Center for Education Services
Frank McKay brings more than 25 years of experience in U.S. public education and international settings to his work as an education consultant at RTI...
Expert in Stem Education
Expert in Inquiry and Project-based Learning
Jennifer Preston
Education Consultant
Center for Education Services
Jennifer Preston is an educational consultant with the Center for Education Services at RTI. Preston has spent her career in positions that combine advocacy...
Expert in Policy Development & Analysis
Expert in Peer Learning Networks
Resources
Questions?
Contact Education Services
at educationservices@rti.org