The Redesign Diagnostic: Taking a Closer Look Under the Hood

Just like a car, schools and districts need regular maintenance to keep running smoothly. You wouldn’t embark on a long road trip without checking the engine, assessing the tires, and making sure everything is in working order—so why would you tackle the complex journey of educating students without first reflecting on where your system stands? That’s where the Redesign Diagnostic comes in.

This framework allows districts to pop the hood, so to speak, and take a critical look at their current state across five key domains centered around the most basic five questions: Why, What, Where, Who, and How. It’s not about pointing out flaws—it’s about identifying what’s working, what needs a tune-up, and where adjustments can help achieve the best possible outcomes. Reflection is a critical step in achieving goals, and the Redesign Diagnostic provides the structure to do it effectively.

WHY: Strategic Focus

Think of this as the engine of your district—the big picture that drives everything else forward. If your mission, vision, and values aren’t aligned, agreed upon, and driving decision making, you’ll run the risk of not getting anywhere.

• What we look for: Are your goals aligned with your community’s needs? Is your vision inspiring action and innovation, or just sitting on a shelf?

• Why it matters: A well-tuned strategic focus ensures every decision and action is aligned with a shared purpose, driving the district forward with clarity.

Key areas:

• Mission and Vision

• Guiding Principles and Values

• Goals and Priorities

• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB)

WHAT: Learning Design

This is the transmission—how power from the engine (your vision) translates into movement. It’s all about the systems that shape how learning happens, from curriculum to professional development.

• What we look for: Is your curriculum inclusive and adaptable? Are teaching practices responsive to diverse learners? Are assessments informing instruction in meaningful ways?

• Why it matters: High-quality learning design ensures that all students benefit from engaging, personalized, and effective instruction.

Key areas:

• Curriculum and Materials

• Pedagogy

• Student-Centered Learning

• Professional Development

• Assessment and Feedback Systems

WHERE: Learning Environment

Your learning environment is the chassis—supporting everything else and ensuring a smooth ride. From culture to physical spaces to technology, this domain examines the foundation of daily operations.

• What we look for: Are your spaces safe and welcoming? Does your school culture foster belonging and engagement? Is your technology infrastructure reliable and accessible?

• Why it matters: A strong learning environment creates the conditions where students and staff can thrive, fostering innovation and inclusivity.

Key areas:

• Climate and Culture

• Physical Spaces

• Technology Infrastructure

• Safety and Accessibility

• Health and Wellness Supports

WHO: Learning Community

The people in your system—students, families, educators, and community partners—are the drivers of success. This domain evaluates how well these stakeholders are engaged, supported, and empowered.

• What we look for: Are families and community members actively involved? Are students given meaningful opportunities to shape their learning? Are recruitment and retention strategies effective?

• Why it matters: When your people are supported and engaged, your district moves forward with strength and shared purpose.

Key areas:

• Family and Community Engagement

• Leadership and Teams

• Student Voice and Empowerment

• Collaborative Partnerships

• Staff Recruitment and Retention

HOW: Operational Systems

Finally, operational systems are your steering and brakes—ensuring control, direction, and safety as you move toward your goals. These systems keep the entire machine running smoothly.

• What we look for: Are resources allocated equitably and effectively? Are data systems driving continuous improvement? Are governance processes transparent and inclusive?

• Why it matters: Strong operational systems reduce inefficiency and friction, allowing the district to focus on what matters most: students.

Key areas:

• Resource Allocation

• Communication Systems

• Data and Accountability

• Governance and Decision-Making

• Continuous Improvement Practices

A Roadmap for Success

The Redesign Diagnostic isn’t just about finding problems—it’s about fine-tuning your systems to ensure everything runs as efficiently and effectively as possible. Whether you’re “emerging” in some areas or already “excelling” in others, this process helps districts prioritize their efforts, align their goals, and drive meaningful progress.

Having a third party like Homeroom assist with this process brings fresh eyes and unbiased insights, helping to uncover blind spots and spark new ideas. We bring the tools, experience, and perspective to guide districts through a reflective and actionable process—ensuring that your next steps are clear, strategic, and grounded in what matters most. With the right adjustments, schools and districts can eliminate unnecessary friction and spend more time focusing on what truly matters: the students.

Ready to pop the hood and take a closer look? Contact us today to learn how the Redesign Diagnostic can help your district reflect, refine, and accelerate its journey toward success.