29: From Implementation to Integration: Building Sustainable School Systems
Many school initiatives don’t fail because they’re bad—but because they’re never fully integrated. In this episode, Drs. Leesa, Mary Beth, and Gail explore the difference between implementation and integration, and why programs often disappear after leadership changes, budget cuts, or staff turnover.
They share how integrated systems—built around shared purpose, distributed ownership, and daily practice—become part of a district's culture and can withstand disruption. Using MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) as a framework for integration, they demonstrate how to weave together academics, behavior, and social-emotional supports so they function as one coherent system rather than competing initiatives. This episode challenges leaders to move beyond installing programs and start building systems that truly last.
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