What are “Level 4” or Turnaround Schools?
Recent changes in state and federal education policy provide for greater autonomy and resources to transform low-performing “Level 4” or Turnaround Schools in Massachusetts.

Where are the 2010-2011 Turnaround Schools located?
There are 35 Turnaround Schools in nine urban school districts throughout the Commonwealth.

What are the skills and characteristics of teachers needed to work in Turnaround Schools?
Read about the ideal candidates to help lead the transformation of Level 4 Schools. Please note that a valid teaching license in the appropriate subject area and grade level is required for all Massachusetts teachers. To learn more about licensure requirements, visit http://www.doe.mass.edu/educators/e_license.html.

What will teachers in Turnaround Schools be expected to do?
Educators in Turnaround Schools will be expected to teach, lead, and inspire.

Why should I consider teaching in a Turnaround School?
Read about professional growth opportunities and other benefits to teachers. Please note that each of the nine participating districts is in the process of developing an array of incentives and supports to encourage great teachers to work in these schools.

Will Turnaround Schools be staffed entirely by teachers new to the building?
Absolutely not. Principals are assembling teams of top-notch educators, selecting great teachers from among the current faculty as well as new applicants.

What types of extra resources will the Turnaround Schools receive?
Level 4 Turnaround Schools will receive additional financial support through the state and federal government. Districts will be eligible to apply for $500,000 or more per year for up to three years for each Level 4 school. 

What types of leadership opportunities will be available in the Turnaround Schools?
Teachers will have a range of opportunities to play a leadership role in the "turnaround" of the school. Specific leadership roles available to teachers will vary by school and district, and teachers will be offered leadership opportunities based on their skills and experience as well as the priorities outlined in the school's redesign plan. Specific roles at each school will be determined by the school Redesign Plan and principal. Possibilities may include:

• Serving as a member of the School Redesign Team
• Serving as a mentor to novice teachers in the school
• Leading a data inquiry team and training other teachers in the analysis and use of data
• Leading professional development focused on English Language Learners, special education students or a specific content area such as literacy or math
• Serving as grade level or department leaders
• Leading the Student Support Team to support teachers with high needs students and to track interventions

How will I know if a Turnaround School will have a longer work day or work year?
Federal grant guidelines require that Level 4 Turnaround Schools establish schedules and strategies that increase instructional time for students and time for collaboration and professional development for staff. Each district and school is in the process of developing a school Redesign Plan that will address the issue of additional learning time and increased time for teacher collaboration. 

How do I know what specific vacancies exist, and how do I apply?
Each district will post vacancies on their district website and will screen and hire teachers for their Level 4 schools. Read more about opportunities in each district.

How can I stay informed about opportunities in Turnaround Schools? 
Sign up for email notifications, and follow the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education on Facebook and Twitter. You should also be in touch with individual districts and schools in which you are interested.

How can I recommend a great teacher to be notified about opportunities to teach in Turnaround Schools?
Send us the name and email address of a great teacher, and we’ll send him or her more information about the initiative.