CDE Field Trips - 6/18/25: Launching the 12th Cohort of the Transformation Network

 

 

 

 

 

 

In early June, about 20 school and district leaders joined CDE staff at the Adams County government building in Brighton to launch the 12th cohort of Colorado’s Transformation Network. This initiative is a cornerstone of the state’s school improvement work, offering intensive, targeted support to schools that have faced persistent academic challenges.

Representatives from nine schools across eight districts gathered to kick off the three-year partnership, which includes enhanced diagnostic reviews, strategic planning support, personalized professional learning, and coaching from a dedicated CDE Transformation Specialist. The schools also receive approximately $180,000 in supplemental grant funding through the Empowering Action for School Improvement (EASI) grant.

The day was filled with discussions around what strong instruction looks like, how to set and track strategic goals, and how to use performance management tools to stay on course. The energy in the room reflected a strong commitment to improving outcomes for students across the state.

“I call it the sleeping giant,” said Mike Kimbrough, principal at Fort Lupton High School. “There’s so much potential in our school, and we just need the right structures and routines to unlock it.”

Amber Scott, a second-year principal at Bea Underwood Elementary in Parachute, emphasized the value of collaboration. “The professional development and resources are phenomenal, but I’m especially excited about the opportunity to learn from peers in both rural and urban districts,” she said. “That kind of support and clarity is really powerful.”

Schools must apply to join the network, with preference going to schools that have received low ratings on the state’s school performance framework. Specific eligibility criteria are posted on CDE’s website. A 2022 study by the University of Colorado Boulder’s Center for Assessment, Design, Research and Evaluation found that schools in the Transformation Network often see meaningful improvements by focusing on specific strategies and building strong staff engagement.

The kickoff event was more than just a meeting—it was a meaningful step forward in a partnership between local educators and the CDE team, all working toward one goal: unlocking student potential.