Purpose   
This project will build on the past efforts of the Louisiana State Improvement Grant (LaSIG), with an emphasis on increasing the use of scientific and evidence-based practices and on bringing those practices to scale. This will be achieved through improving systems of professional development and service delivery at the state, district, campus, and individual levels.

Method
In partnership with the Louisiana Department of Education (LDE) and with state, district, campus, and family stakeholders, the project will continue initiatives designed to improve systems that support and expand the use of scientific and evidence-based practices throughout the state [e.g.,  Response to Intervention (RtI), Literacy Plan, schoolwide positive behavior support (SWPBS)]. Through these partnerships, the project will support districts and schools as they address specific targeted areas identified in the Louisiana State Performance Plan (SPP) as critical to improving outcomes for, and the performance of, Louisiana students with disabilities. Targeted areas include inclusive practices, SWPBS, reduction in disproportionality, high school diploma, and closing achievement gaps.  The project will also support personnel preparation efforts and partnerships among the LDE, institutes of higher education (IHEs), and family collaborators to recruit from underrepresented groups; engage recruits in teacher preparation programs; increase the number of inclusive classrooms and schools serving as partner sites for teacher interns and student field activities; and increase retention through creative induction programs.