This session explores how a redesigned onboarding experience for school districts identified for Differentiated Assistance (DA) strengthened data literacy and increased ownership of continuous improvement efforts. Participants will learn how the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools (FCSS) DA team transformed its onboarding process into a more collaborative, data-centered experience that positions district teams as active partners in improvement from the very beginning.While FCSS has long utilized a systematic approach to DA, previous onboarding practices did not always foster strong district ownership, even when improvement outcomes were achieved. Recognizing the connection between ownership and sustainability, the team redesigned the process to better engage local educational agency (LEA) teams identified through the 2025 California School Dashboard.Attendees will explore how the revised model emphasizes relationship-building, contextualized use of district data, and differentiated entry points that accommodate varying levels of readiness. Key strategies include using authentic district data during early sessions, creating structured opportunities for cross-role collaboration, and embedding just-in-time supports to strengthen confidence in interpreting, applying, and sharing data.The session will highlight evidence of impact, including increased team buy-in, stronger participation in improvement planning, and growth in data literacy. Through discussion and practical examples, participants will examine facilitation strategies, tools, and design principles that can be adapted to their own contexts.Participants will leave with actionable approaches for designing onboarding experiences that build ownership, strengthen data use, and support sustainable continuous improvement.
