Note: This is a Crossover Session that is featured at the National Summit on Improvement in Education. Attendees from both conferences can attend this session, so there will be a mix of participants from Deeper Learning and from Summit. The University of Chicago’s Network for College Success has partnered with 14–18 Chicago high schools for over a decade, helping principals and leadership teams strengthen collaboration to support student success. Recently, the network introduced adaptive 1:1 check-ins between principals and their direct reports. This routine clarifies roles, reduces work duplication, strengthens accountability, and creates consistent opportunities for reciprocal feedback. As principals adopt this approach, schools will see clearer roles, improved initiative follow-through, stronger staff engagement, and healthier learning cultures that advance student outcomes. In this interactive workshop, participants will examine case studies from two large Chicago high schools, explore research, and practice tools such as a “Buckets of Work” mapping protocol, leaving with strategies to apply adaptive check-ins in their own leadership contexts.
About the National Summit on Improvement in Education:
The National Summit on Improvement in Education is a gathering and rallying point for a vibrant and diverse community of improvers who are working to create educational systems where all young people learn and thrive. In 2026, we're bringing together the powerful Deeper Learning and Improvement communities through select crossover sessions, culminating in a joint closing keynote. You are invited to dive deeper and make new connections at DL26. Check out our
Summit and DL26 comparison to learn more.
