The faces behind the numbers: pathways for strengthening student learning progress and recovery by engaging in continuous improvement

Abstract This article delineates the success of a leadership plan that one middle school in Center Point, Alabama implemented as a response to a Comprehensive School Improvement (CSI) designation due to performing in the bottom 5% of all middle schools across the state. School leadership, in partnership with coaching from Studer Education, worked tirelessly to improve school culture and engage in continuous improvement to benefit student achievement. Prioritizing student-centered practices and learning progression allowed leaders to identify barriers to student progress and shifted the focus away from isolated performance. Drawing on three effective execution practices (individual accountability, reliability, and consistency) aided in the middle school’s ability to utilize transparent data to implement strategic continuous improvement. Moreover, leadership partnered with the school community and launched mentoring programs designed to support students with varying social and academic needs. This school’s commitment to continuous improvement speaks to the transformation the school achieved during and post-pandemic.