about the program

WestEd's Comprehensive School Assistance Program helps schools that fail to meet state or federal achievement goals. To close the achievement gap in these under-performing schools, CSAP employs a three-part strategy: First, the program helps schools, their districts, and those who work with them plan, implement, and refine research-based, comprehensive school improvement efforts. Second, through publications, television programs, journal articles, and conference presentations, CSAP contributes to a growing knowledge base of how low-performing schools can improve student achievement. Finally, the program brings together research and practical experience to inform policymakers at all levels as they make critical decisions designed to ensure all students succeed academically.

CSAP works closely with SchoolsMovingUp, a WestEd initiative that helps schools and districts address the immense challenge of raising student achievement in low-performing schools. SchoolsMovingUp offers a wealth of practical ideas and models for school improvement, including profiles of previously low-performing schools from across the country that have improved student achievement.

CSAP is one of 15 federally funded comprehensive assistance centers nationwide established by Congress in 1994 to support states, districts, and schools in accomplishing schoolwide reform aimed at improving the academic performance of all students. CSAP’s region includes 50 of California's 58 counties, comprising 819 school districts and 4,135 schools.