Achieving educational excellence and academic achievement for every student requires more than isolated initiatives—it demands a deep understanding of the systems and conditions shaping student outcomes. For many school and district leaders, inequities persist not because of a lack of effort, but because the root causes remain hidden within policies, practices, and long-standing structures.

The Acceleration Formula session explores how Baseline Systems Studies can help leaders surface these root causes and use evidence to drive meaningful, system-wide change—especially for historically underserved and vulnerable student populations.

Facilitated by Janet Hwang, Vice President at Orenda, this presentation highlights how a Baseline Systems Study provides districts with a clear, comprehensive view of how existing systems are producing current results. Rather than focusing solely on outcomes, leaders are supported in examining the conditions, decisions, and structures that shape student achievement.

Participants will also hear directly from Westminster School District’s Superintendent, Dr. Gunn Marie Hansen, and Chief Academic Officer, Michelle Watkins, who will share their firsthand experience using study findings to guide targeted, sustainable implementation across their school communities. Their leadership story offers a compelling example of how intentional systems analysis can lead to tangible improvements in teaching, learning, and academic achievement for all students.

What Participants Will Learn

Attendees will leave with practical insights and tools, including:

• How to uncover systemic barriers to equity
  Learn how a Baseline Systems Study reveals the underlying systems, policies, and practices shaping student outcomes—particularly for historically marginalized groups.

• A real-world example of systemic transformation
  Explore Westminster School District’s journey from study findings to actionable strategies that drive coherent, district-wide improvement.

• A framework to drive collective action
  Gain access to a replicable process for conducting systems analysis and engaging cross-functional teams in continuous improvement work aligned to shared goals.

This session is designed for district and school leaders committed to moving beyond surface-level change and toward equity-driven system redesign. If you are seeking clarity, structure, and a proven approach to accelerating achievement, this conversation offers both inspiration and actionable guidance.