Learning-Ready Facilities

Sample Questions to Ask

• What are average scores on district-administered facilities condition assessments? Do scores differ across schools?
• What percentage of teachers in the district report being able to access high-quality equipment (like labs, technology, and classroom furniture) for all students who need it?
• How do teachers’ reports of access to high-quality equipment differ across student groups and/or across schools?

See our DIY District Diagnostic for more examples and recommendations about the types of data to look at.

What Does the Data Say About Learning-Ready Facilities?

This interactive data resource can help deepen your understanding of how dimensions of resource equity like school funding play out in schools and districts across the country.

As you navigate these stories, you’ll learn how system shifts can lead to more equitable and better student experiences and outcomes. Then, take action by reflecting on the inequities that exist within your system and consider ways to drive transformational change to help your highest-need students.

Take Action With Our Diagnostic Tools

1. Use our Resource Equity Diagnostic: Self-Assessment tool to start conversations and build shared understanding across teams.
2. Then, analyze your data to better understand the state of resource equity in your district. First, use our Diagnostic Blueprints to learn about what types of analyses to conduct. Then, input your district data into our DIY Analysis Tools to complete these analyses and make meaning of the results.
3. Prioritize areas for further inquiry and identify potential root causes and actions using our District Guidebook.

Common Causes of Inequity

• Insufficient Funding: When overall funding levels are insufficient or inflexible, it can limit a district’s capacity to maintain high-quality learning facilities and equipment for all students.
• Lack of Public Engagement & Accountability: Without consistent, equitable, and transparent community engagement in decision-making, learning facilities will not meet the needs of students and families.
• Limited Staff Capacity & Expertise: Without the necessary time or expertise, staff may find it challenging to effectively use equipment and technology in ways that facilitate students’ learning and meet their distinct needs.

Related Dimensions

No single dimension of education resource equity can unlock every student’s potential—but when dimensions are combined to meet students’ distinct needs, they are a strong foundation for unlocking better, more equitable experiences in school.

Explore the Empowering, Rigorous Content dimension because learning environments and equipment are influenced by the courses and curricula offered, and must be accompanied by high-quality instructional materials.