Expanding the COMPASS Initiative

Resource Training & Solutions is proud to announce our pivotal role in supporting the Minnesota Department of Education's (MDE) expansion of the COMPASS (Collaborative Minnesota Partnerships to Advance Student Success) initiative. This statewide system of support is designed to elevate educational outcomes for all students across Minnesota, including districts, charter schools, and Tribal schools.

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A Unified Effort for Continuous Improvement

Thanks to an annual investment of $13.5 million by the Legislature in 2023, MDE and the Minnesota Service Cooperatives are set to enhance the implementation of the Minnesota Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MnMTSS). This funding enables us to provide continuous improvement guidance, professional learning, and flexible support through COMPASS at no cost to educational institutions.

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Commissioner Willie Jett of the Minnesota Department of Education emphasizes the importance of this initiative:

"Minnesota has created COMPASS to support all districts, charter schools, and Tribal schools in continuous improvement with the ultimate goal of improving outcomes for students. We thank the Legislature for prioritizing this important work and appreciate the partnership with the Minnesota Service Cooperatives to make a difference for all students across the state."

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Comprehensive Support for All Schools

COMPASS is structured to offer various levels of support, including professional development opportunities, resources, evidence-based practices, and facilitated guidance tailored to the needs of each school. By leveraging the expertise of the Minnesota Service Cooperatives, we ensure that the voices of local educators and leaders are integral to the design and implementation of this system.

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Anne Kilzer, Director of Minnesota Service Cooperatives, discusses the collaborative nature of this initiative:

"The Minnesota Service Cooperatives are excited to align federal, state, and local resources and to co-design this enhanced and elevated system of support. By bringing the voice of those doing the work at the local level into the discussion, our perspective will ensure that implementation meets the needs of school leaders and learners across the state."

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Specialists in Every Region

Each of the nine Regional Service Cooperatives, including Resource Training & Solutions, will host a team of specialists who will collaborate closely with MDE. These specialists will offer expertise in various critical areas, such as MnMTSS, literacy, math, school climate and culture, equitable access to high-quality learning environments, and culturally responsive instructional leadership.

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This expands continuous improvement opportunities to all districts, charter schools, and Tribal schools and builds upon the assistance previously offered through the six Regional Centers of Excellence. Support for ESSA (Every Student Succeeds Act) targeted and comprehensive schools will now be offered through all nine Service Cooperatives’ regional COMPASS teams.

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A Commitment to Excellence

The COMPASS initiative was initially launched in 2021 to address the academic, social-emotional, and mental health needs of students and educators impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This expansion represents a significant step forward in our commitment to ensuring every child in Minnesota has access to an excellent education, regardless of race or zip code.

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Michelle Wang, Education Director at Resource Training & Solutions, highlights the importance of this partnership for our region:

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"We have been planning and preparing for the expansion of COMPASS for quite some time and are excited to now see that work come to fruition. The partnership between MDE and MSC really builds upon the strengths of each partner and allows us to best serve schools in a regional model. With firm goals and flexible means, we can ensure schools receive the support they need, in a format that works best for them."

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Resource Training & Solutions is dedicated to playing a key role in this transformative initiative, empowering schools and educators across Minnesota to achieve continuous improvement and excellence in education. We are excited to welcome nine new dedicated staff members to support this new initiative and schools across our region! Together, we can create a brighter future for all students.

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For more information about the COMPASS initiative and how Resource Training & Solutions is supporting this effort, please read the original press release from the Minnesota Department of Education or contact Michelle Wang, Education Director, at mwang@resourcecoop-mn.gov.