Foundational Schools Pilot

Foundational Schools Pilot Overview

We are launching the Foundational Schools Pilot to better understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing schools serving fewer than 300 students and to provide targeted support and learning opportunities for school leaders in these contexts. This program brings together principals leading small elementary schools to share best practices and build connections throughout the South and West sides of the city.

The pilot pairs small schools together in groups called triads. Each triad includes two focus principals and one lead principal, all leading schools of similar size or context. Triads meet regularly throughout the year to share practices, work through challenges, and learn from one another.

Outcomes 

• Focus Principals: Direct access to a lead principal’s practice through school visits, regular triad check-ins to work through school-specific challenges, and connection to peers leading schools of similar size and context.
• Lead Principals: Opportunity to expand their leadership impact by mentoring two focus principals, sharing their practice through hosted school visits and cohort sessions, and contributing to a growing network of small-school leadership.
• The Fund/CPS: A clearer understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing schools serving fewer than 300 students, and a model for targeted support that can inform future programming for small-school leaders.

Who Should Apply?

As a Lead Principal: Experienced principals leading a small South or West side elementary school who are ready to mentor two focus principals, host school visits and cohort sessions, and orient the triad at the start of the year.

As a Focus Principal: Principals leading small elementary schools (fewer than 300 students) on the South or West side who want structured peer connection, regular check-ins, and the chance to learn firsthand from a lead principal’s practice.