As PRISM I moves from reflection to action, districts across the network are engaging in a pivotal next step: Action Planning Days. These sessions—led by PRISM I Leadership Coaches and conducted over one to three half-day workshops—mark the beginning of the “Planning” phase in the arc of development, where data-driven insight is transformed into concrete next steps. The goal? To use the Literacy Systems Scan (LSS) data and early visioning work to shape a focused, strategic action plan that will guide each district’s literacy improvement efforts.
Action Planning Days unfold in three parts:
- Visioning: Teams reflect on their existing early literacy vision—or begin developing one—while considering how it aligns with PRISM goals and DESE’s instructional vision. This shared vision provides a strong foundation for the planning work ahead.
- Prioritizing: Using LSS data, teams identify one priority driver from each of four domains. Facilitators guide discussions and consensus-building, helping teams focus on what matters most to move their literacy work forward.
- Planning: Participants draft SMARTIE (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound, Inclusive, and Equitable) goals aligned to each priority driver. They also begin to explore necessary supports, anticipated challenges, and connections across grade levels.
While these sessions emphasize process over final product, the collaborative conversations happening now are essential. The action plans and vision statements developed this summer will be grounded in shared leadership, clarity, and a strong sense of purpose.