The Reform Support Network (RSN) conducted studies between April and August of 2013 of 11 States and districts, urban and rural, engaged in the communities surrounding low-performing schools. The research yielded five primary lessons or takeaways:

1. Make engagement a priority and establish an infrastructure.
2. Communicate proactively in the community.
3. Listen to the community and respond to its feedback.
4. Offer meaningful opportunities to participate.
5. Turn community supporters into leaders and advocates.

This document discusses this study and these findings in greater detail.