STATEWIDE SYSTEM OF SUPPORT

SSoS is an extension of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education that serves all districts in the Commonwealth, but gives first priority for assistance to schools and districts needing Targeted/Focused Assistance as determined in the state’s accountability system. All districts may participate in regional networks and, to the extent permitted by SSoS resources, other regional SSoS activities.  SSoS teams are made up of former superintendents, principals, literacy, math, career tech, and data specialists to best support all areas of school improvement efforts.

Please visit the MA Department of Ed website for more information about state initiatives and SSoS teams.

The following are some of the services that SSoS provides:

  • Build district capacity to prioritize the collection and use of local data to develop SMART benchmarks and outcomes to monitor school improvement activities
  • Facilitate the implementation of the turnaround practices and make connections to the Conditions for School Effectiveness and Characteristics of Standards-based Teaching
  • Translate and communicate state level assessment data and measures with districts to help leaders make evidence-based decisions to improve achievement and performance
  • Build district capacity to perform data analysis to include student, class, school, district, and state level analysis, including use of DESE tools, such as Edwin
  • Gather evidence of effective instructional practices and student engagement in schools through classroom visits, focus groups, and document review
  • Conduct applied research and program evaluation through observation, focus groups, and student performance levels
  • Conduct learning walkthroughs and school site visits to identify strengths and weaknesses in instruction, and calibrate observations for teachers and administrators
  • Meet with administrators to identify DDMs for various levels and content areas
  • Facilitate meetings using PLC protocols and procedures with administration, teachers, and students
  • Develop, manage, facilitate, and evaluate conferences, institutes, courses, webinars, networks, and job-alike groups