Through participation in DCI, district administrators and educators receive professional development, resources, and individualized support using research-based educational strategies. This statewide project focuses on improving educational outcomes for all students, especially students with disabilities, through an evidence-based professional development approach.
DCI Framework
The DCI Framework is a cohesive, interactive system resulting in exceptional outcomes for all Missouri students. The framework is made up of Content (DCI Practices and supporting materials), Professional Development (coaching, training, and online learning), and Statewide Support (the people), as described below.
The nine Professional Learning Modules (DCI Practices) and supporting materials were developed from existing research identifying the high-leverage practices resulting in student achievement.
The nine Professional Learning Modules (DCI Practices) and supporting materials were developed from existing research identifying the high-leverage practices resulting in student achievement.
Foundations
The foundations set the stage with three practices essential for collaborative and data-informed instruction: Collaborative Teams, Data-Based Decision Making, and Common Formative Assessment.
Effective Teaching and Learning Practices
Two selected evidence-based practices shown to be highly effective in improving student achievement: Developing Assessment Capable Learners with Feedback and Metacognition.
Supportive Context
The practices in this section create a supportive environment to advance and sustain effective teaching and learning: School-Based Implementation Coaching, Collective Teacher Efficacy, Systems Leadership, and Instructional Leadership.
Professional Development is delivered through training, coaching, and online learning. Districts also have access to accompanying PD materials (PowerPoints, handouts, Coaching Companion resources, and Walkthrough/Look For Tools) for each DCI Practice.
Based on conversations and a review of district data, district leaders, together with their DCI Facilitator and Coaching Support Team, decide on focus areas which will most effectively address district needs and develop a plan of action to implement these DCI practices. Coaching Support Teams provide coaching and training on the chose DCI practice(s). Coaching and training build knowledge, provide skill rehearsal, and create opportunities for conversation.
DESE provides Statewide Support to DCI districts through a partnership with MoEdu-SAIL and the Missouri Regional Professional Development Centers.
Each DCI district has a Coaching Support Team and Facilitator, selected to effectively address their unique needs through coaching, training, and overall support. Members of the CST bring a wide breadth of expertise in effective teaching and learning practices, special education, leadership, data, technology, behavioral practices, and educational systems change.
Online learning consists of DESE endorsed professional learning materials available online to be used in partnership with the CST or independently by districts wanting to provide their own in-house Professional Development.
Together, these elements form the DCI Framework and Professional Development approach through which partners collaborate for exceptional outcomes for all Missouri students.
