- Eight to 12 teachers and administrators working together regularly with a Critical Friends Group coach for two years to define and produce improved student achievement.
- A coach who helps the group build a sense of trust and helps the members sharpen self-insight, promote creativity and encourage candid, usable peer feedback.
- One, two-hour meeting each month, preferably during the school day.
- Monthly classroom observation and feedback by peers.
- Coaches attend a five-day seminar and may attend several national and regional seminars.
- School and district administrators provide time, space and active support for the work of the Critical Friends Groups, including the monthly meetings, peer observations and debriefings.
- Opportunities to deepen existing relationships and explore new partnerships with other national and regional educational organizations and school reform networks.