The document summarizes the focus and themes that emerged from a series of working group meetings on school autonomy. The meetings in December explored definitions of autonomy and identified potential areas of autonomy to consider, as well as barriers. Subsequent meetings in January and February discussed curriculum, instruction, examples of autonomous schools, and research on autonomy. Meetings also highlighted that autonomy is not a single solution, and more operational details are needed on models that could work in the local context. The final meeting discussed lessons from examples of autonomy in other states or districts.

1. Summary of Themes Emerging from Autonomy Meetings
Below is a brief summary of the focus and themes that emerged at each of the working group meetings. As you review all the materials provided at the
meetings, add additional thoughts you gained from the meeting itself. The focus of the meetings comes from the agendas and the themes emerged either
from the exit tickets or the notes at the meeting. Further information on specific meetings can be accessed at Edtonomy.weebly.com
Meeting Date Focus of the Meeting Emerging Themes
December 3, 2013 Clarifying Expectations, Process, Timeframe
Exploring what autonomy means
Identifying Areas of Autonomy to consider
Pin down the barriers
Examine Examples of Autonomy
Explore curriculum and instruction next
January 6, 2014 Autonomy as it applies to curriculum/instruction
Basic Education Program/Federal requirements
Identifying driving and restraining forces
Lack of awareness of existing autonomy
Educators best equipped to make curriculum & instruction decisions
Teacher Quality & Responsiveness are key
Time, funding, & organizational structures are key barriers
February 11, 2014 Example of an Autonomous School
Research on autonomy
Require operational details on what works
Autonomy not a single panacea
What will work in Rhode Island?
March 4, 2014 3 Examples of Autonomy from States/Districts Some aspects of autonomy hold promise
Operational details are needed
April 7, 2014 3 Massachusetts leaders discuss autonomy Certain conditions essential for autonomy
Trust and collaboration key at all levels
Leadership and training matter