Transformational Protocols: An Educator's Toolkit for Leveling Up Learning, Teaching, and Leading

How can schools use collaborative time to drive real improvement rather than surface-level conversation?

Improvement in schools does not happen by accident; it occurs when educators unite with purpose, structure, and a shared commitment to high and equitable student outcomes. Transformational Protocols provides a practical, field-tested road map for educators ready to move beyond surface-level conversation. Developed by the Center for Leadership and Educational Equity (CLEE), this resource draws on three decades of practice, research, and data-driven methodologies to turn routine meetings and professional development into transformative learning and results.

Organized around 4 interconnected phases―fostering learning communities, strengthening collaboration, improving instruction, and systematizing improvement―this book helps leaders at every level navigate the complexities of adult learning. Whether you are a teacher, instructional coach, principal, or district leader, you will find clear routines for building the psychological safety and trust necessary for honest reflection and shared problem solving. By centering real evidence of student learning and professional dilemmas, teams can shift from "initiative fatigue" to sustained, disciplined improvement that transforms both educator practices and student learning.

Book Features:

• Over 75 ready-to-use protocols refined through decades of job-embedded professional learning.
• A Facilitator’s Starter Kit with guidance for both virtual and in-person settings and tools for both new and experienced leaders.
• A Systematic Improvement Arc that organizes tools into clear parts: building community, strengthening collaboration, improving instruction, and systematizing results.
• Practical Classroom Adaptations and strategies for implementation across PLCs, leadership teams, and system-level work.
• Equitable Routines designed to highlight multiple perspectives, engage differences, and maintain shared responsibility for each student's success.

Joe Battaglia has been a teacher, coach, curriculum director, and a nonprofit and system leader in student-centered environments. He currently serves as a high school principal. Donna Braun is cofounder of the Center for Leadership and Educational Equity (CLEE), a leadership development researcher, and a former school leader and science teacher in urban secondary public schools. Chris Jones supports educators with tools for collaboration and brings experience in nonprofit communications and programs.