This document outlines the case study planning calendar for a superintendent preparation program cohort from 2008-2010. It details the steps and assignments for a year-long case study project, including: - An introduction to case learning methods in August 2009 using a textbook as a guideline. - Monthly seminars from September 2009 to April 2010 where students complete steps of the case study analysis in small groups and receive formative feedback from advisors. - Four steps to the case study analysis due in October, January, February, and March, focusing on strategy, organizational elements, data synthesis, and a completed case study. - Presentation of exemplar case studies in April 2010 to share learning with the cohort.

1. Superintendent Preparation Program, 2008-10 Cohort STUDENTS' CASE STUDY PLANNING CALENDAR (may be modified during the course of the program) Aug 2009INTRODUCTION TO CASE LEARNING* Overview of textbook, Childress et al, Managing School Districts for High Performance, 2007 * Outline of one-year project, rubric, formative assessments* Individual and group assignments for September seminar Sep 2009JOINT COHORT STUDY: MODULE 1, MSDFHP, Coherence Made Concrete * PELP Framework activity to deepen understanding of the model as guideline for analysis * Small group analyses of three Module 1 case studies * Whole group oral reports /discussion: How will model studies help In preparation of Step 1? Subsequent steps? Oct 2009STEP 1 OF CASE STUDY DUE: Analysis of strategy and environment* Students submit to advisor by e-mail prior to seminar; formative assessment within 3 days * Discussion: What are embedded theories of action? How will selected strategies impact instructional core? What are critical environmental factors identified in Step 1 analyses? * Assignments for November seminar (Module IV preparation)Nov 2009COHORT STUDY: MODULE IV, MSDFHP, Managing Across Differences* Jigsaw activity: four groups divide preparation of module; individuals and small groups analyze and report out recommended next steps* Discussion and questions regarding Step 2 work products due in JanuaryJan 2010STEP 2 OF CASE STUDY DUE: Data-based analysis of organizational elements* Students submit to advisor by e-mail prior to seminar; formative assessment within 3 days* Group discussion: What do the data reveal in your analysis of alignments among organizational elements ? Alignment of elements with the district strategy you are studying? * Discussion and questions regarding Step 3 work products due in February Feb 2010STEP 3 OF CASE STUDY DUE: Data Synthesis and Presentation* Students submit to advisor by e-mail prior to seminar; formative assessment within 3 days* Group discussion: Do the data tell a clear, compelling story? Would they serve to confirm a leadership direction with your school board? * Discussion and questions regarding Step 4 work products due in March Mar 2010STEP 4: COMPLETED CASE STUDY DUE* Students submit electronically and post on class website; summative assessment prior to April seminar * Group discussion: What has this experience in case learning added to your understanding of organizational leadership for student learning improvement? Apr 2010CASE STUDY EXEMPLARS * 2-3 students will present outstanding case studies to class 8/09