Director
Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI)
University of Minnesota
As I reflect on the critical work we are doing across Minnesota to implement the READ Act and the Minnesota Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MnMTSS) framework, I am reminded of the challenges and opportunities that lie at the heart of educational leadership. For district administrators, these initiatives represent not just a mandate, but an opportunity to transform how we serve students—especially those who need us the most. It is both an exciting and daunting task, but one that we can accomplish together through strategic leadership and collaboration.
At the Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement (CAREI), we are proud to support the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) in bringing MnMTSS and literacy initiatives to life across the state. Our mission has always been to bridge research and practice, and there has never been a more important time to put that mission into action. These efforts represent a pivotal opportunity for Minnesota schools to align evidence-based practices with the needs of their students, ensuring academic growth and social-emotional well-being for all. With your leadership, we can make Minnesota a national model for equity and excellence in education.
The READ Act: A call to action for literacy
The READ Act outlines ambitious requirements aimed at improving literacy outcomes for Minnesota students. It emphasizes evidence-based instruction and interventions, particularly in early literacy, as a foundation for success in all areas of learning. For district administrators, the READ Act presents both a challenge and an opportunity: to drive systemic improvements in literacy instruction while fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement across schools.
MnMTSS: A comprehensive framework for success
MnMTSS is not a compliance tool—it is a comprehensive school improvement framework that organizes and integrates practices in literacy, math, and SEL to meet the diverse needs of students. By focusing on evidence-based strategies and continuous improvement, MnMTSS ensures that interventions are targeted, effective, and sustainable.
As administrators, your leadership is critical in creating systems that empower teachers and support students. This means setting a vision for equitable outcomes, aligning resources to support that vision, and maintaining a relentless focus on data-informed decision-making.
Change management: The heart of implementation
Implementing systemic change, such as MnMTSS and the requirements of the READ Act, requires more than compliance with state mandates—it demands thoughtful change management. Change management involves strategies, processes, and tools to manage the people-side of change, ensuring that the transition is smooth, effective, and sustainable for individuals, teams, and organizations. While there are various models (Kotter, R. Campbell (2008), the core steps in effective change management typically include the following:
1. Assess the need for change
2. Define clear goals and vision
3. Build consensus and buy-in
4. Develop a change management plan
5. Communicate effectively
6. Build capacity and provide training
7. Implement the change
8. Reinforce and sustain the change
9. Evaluate and adjust
10. Embed the change in the organizational culture
By following these steps, organizations can systematically guide their teams through the complexities of change, ensuring smoother transitions and greater success in achieving desired outcomes. Critically, focus your change management by:
Starting with the “Why”: When we connect initiatives to our shared values and goals, it becomes easier to build buy-in and inspire action. Let’s ensure everyone—teachers, parents, and community members—understands how MnMTSS and the READ Act align with our vision for student success.
Investing in professional learning: Teachers are at the heart of this work, and they need support to bring it to life. Whether it’s training on literacy best practices or using data to guide instruction, professional development is an investment that pays dividends.
Celebrating progress: Change is hard, but every small success is worth celebrating. Recognizing the milestones along the way not only builds momentum but also reminds us why this work matters.
By following these steps, organizations can systematically guide their teams through the complexities of change, ensuring smoother transitions and greater success in achieving desired outcomes.
Collaborative support: Minnesota Service Cooperatives
A key component of this effort is the recent reorganization of the Minnesota Service Cooperatives, which now have MTSS leads, literacy leads, and literacy coaches dedicated to supporting districts. These professionals are positioned to provide direct assistance to schools, ensuring fidelity of implementation and sustained improvement over time.
CAREI is partnering with MDE to build the capacity of these service cooperative leads and coaches. Through professional development, technical assistance, and collaborative planning, we are equipping these experts to support district leaders like you in navigating the complexities of this work.
A shared vision for the future
At CAREI, we believe that when research meets practice, extraordinary things happen. Our partnership with MDE and the service cooperatives is just the beginning. Together, we are creating a roadmap for how districts can implement systemic change that makes a real difference for students.
I know this work is demanding. There will be moments of frustration, and progress may feel slow at times. But I also know that the impact of what you are doing will be felt for generations. Change takes time, but every step forward is a step toward a brighter future for Minnesota’s students.
If you need support, resources, or a thought partner, CAREI is here for you. Let’s work together to ensure that MnMTSS and the READ Act lead to meaningful, lasting improvements in our schools. Thank you for all you do to lead this important work. Please feel free to contact me at kgibbons@umn.edu.
