High Reliability Schools—Level 1: An Effective Climate and Collaborative Culture Focused on Student Success
Little Rock, Arkansas | November 10, 2026
The High Reliability Schools (HRS) framework of effective school reform emphasizes key elements: a safe, supportive, and collaborative culture; effective teaching in every classroom; a guaranteed and viable curriculum; a standards-based approach to tracking and reporting student progress; and the use of competency-based educational practices as fundamental conditions that schools can implement and measure to ensure educational success for all students.
Level 1 of the High Reliability Schools (HRS) framework establishes the foundation upon which all other levels depend. The cultural beliefs of the school must affirm that safety, support, and collaboration are not optional conditions but essential ones. The leading indicators for this level—which include perceptions of safety, opportunities for input, the consistent celebration of success, and the optimal functionality of the school system to support staff and student success—cannot be reduced to checklists; they are conditions that thrive within a culture that prioritizes a safe and supportive school focused on stakeholders' voices. Simultaneously, these leading indicators shape the school’s climate by influencing how people feel: whether they feel included, respected, empowered, celebrated, and cared for. A truly effective culture fosters behaviors that build strong systems and structures, thereby creating a positive climate for staff and student success.
During this full-day workshop, participants will explore HRS Level 1 through the lens of school culture and climate, examining how intentional leadership actions shape the lived experience of students, staff, and families. Participants will engage with all eight Level 1 leading indicators, not as isolated requirements, but as interconnected drivers of a safe, orderly, supportive, and purpose-driven school environment. This session blends research, reflection, dialogue, and practical application. Educators will leave with a clearer understanding of how culture is built through daily practices, how Level 1 indicators reinforce one another, and how to move from intention to implementation in ways that are both sustainable and authentic.
- Explain the purpose of HRS Level 1 and articulate why culture and climate make up the foundation for all subsequent improvement efforts.
- Understand how the Level 1 leading indicators work together to create safe, orderly, and supportive learning environments for students and adults.
- Explore the role of collaborative teams and the PLC process as a key structure that leverages the strengths of all educators and supports effective teaching and learning practices.
- Analyze their current school or district practices to identify strengths and gaps within each Level 1 indicator.
VenueSolution Tree Arkansas Training Center 425 W Capitol Ave Suite #1300 Little Rock, Arkansas |
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Schedule
Agenda and speakers are subject to change.
Tuesday, November 10th
| 7:00–8:00 a.m. |
Registration and Breakfast |
| 8:00–11:30 a.m. |
Presentation |
| 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. |
Lunch (on your own) |
| 1:00–4:00 p.m. | Presentation |
Breaks and lunch times will be announced onsite.
Agenda is subject to change.
Accommodations
Events reach capacity quickly. Please confirm your registration before making travel plans.
In order to receive the discounted hotel room rate, please mention Marzano Resources. After the deadline listed below, rates will be determined by the hotel. While discounted rooms in our hotel room block may be sold out, the primary hotel may still have rooms available at their standard rates. Please inquire directly with the hotel.
If driving in and parking at the training center, please park in the designated deck located at 607 S Spring St Little Rock AR 72201 each day connected to the Simmons Tower. Solution Tree will validate parking, so be sure to bring your parking stub with you to the workshop.
Hotels
Suggested Hotel
DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown Little Rock
424 W Markham St
Des Moines, IA 50309
Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
501.372.4371
Suggested Hotel
AC Hotel Little Rock Downtown
201 West Capitol Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50309
Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
501.500.8700
VenueSolution Tree Arkansas Training Center 425 W Capitol Ave Suite #1300 Little Rock, Arkansas |
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Additional Information
Product code: WSL336
Five Reasons to Attend a Marzano Resources Event (PDF)A Letter to Your Boss (DOC)
Included with your registration
Five Big Ideas for Leading a High Reliability School
No matter your school improvement plan, data-driven leadership is key. These five big ideas will dispel popular myths long held by school and district leaders, reinvigorate your commitment to focus on the right work, and guide you in supporting the daily practices that matter most in achieving high levels of student success.
Event Journal
We’re enhancing your event experience. In addition to providing presentations in digital format, Marzano Resources is publishing retail-quality, perfect-bound notebooks expertly designed to support your learning. Any printed handouts or worksheets integrated into your sessions will continue to be provided.
