Denver Public Schools recently released a case study report detailing the journey of three unique schools that have implemented personalized learning approaches. The model of one our partner schools—Denver School of Innovation and Sustainable Design (DSISD)—is featured.

The report surfaces key insights from the work these schools are doing and outlines best practices for districts seeking to support schools implementing innovative practices that can create positive student outcomes.

The DSISD case study outlines the rationale for the school’s design, implementation, and iteration practices. It describes DSISD’s personalized learning framework, the goals for their approach, and the successes and challenges they’re encountering in Year 2.

DSISD’s five key drivers have guided their focus on designing, testing, and revising their personalized learning approach:

• learner agency
• competency-based learning
• student supports
• advisory
• data-driven instruction

The report goes on to detail the early lessons DSISD has learned—like the need to empower teachers and scaffold learner agency—which will help the school navigate the next several years of iteration.

Principal Danny Medved attributes some of their early success to district and partner supports as well as access to a national community of practice. “There’s a number of district resources, folks, and partners…that I can draw on, and a national learning community around me of leaders doing the same work,” said Medved. “On my own, I could never do it.”