Implementation Science: A Playbook for Instructional Leaders
Implementation Science: A Playbook for Instructional Leaders offers a practical approach to driving sustainable, impactful change in educational settings. Grounded in research-to-practice methodology, this essential guide is designed for district and school instructional leaders committed to elevating student outcomes through strategic, evidence-informed decisions. Dr. Carlson draws on decades of experience in teaching, leadership, curriculum development, and literacy research to deliver a step-by-step framework that empowers leaders to effectively plan, implement, monitor, and assess initiatives.
In clear, accessible language, Implementation Science demystifies the core principles of implementation and bridges concepts to turnaround. It offers actionable strategies and tools for tackling complex challenges in today’s educational landscape. From curriculum selection to fostering an engaged, capable team, this playbook navigates the nuances of change management, helping leaders make data-driven decisions that stick. Each chapter culminates with key takeaways and questions for reflection, supporting instructional leaders in aligning their work with broader district goals.
Perfect for superintendents, principals, curriculum directors, and aspiring leaders, Implementation Science is more than a guide—it’s a hands-on resource for building a sustainable, student-centered culture of continuous improvement.
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“Sustainable school and district transformation isn’t about adopting the right curriculum—it’s about implementing it with fidelity, monitoring its impact, and continuously refining practices. Without a strong implementation framework, even the best strategies will falter.”
— Dr. Julia James Carlson
— Implementation Science: A Playbook for Instructional Leaders
About the Author
Dr. Julia James Carlson is an accomplished educational leader with over two decades of experience in school turnaround, curriculum development/management, and instructional leadership. With a career spanning urban, suburban, and rural districts, private sectors, and nonprofit organizations, Dr. Carlson has become a trusted voice in educational reform and implementation science. She holds an EdD in Educational Administration from Boston College, where she received the prestigious AASA Educational Administrative Scholarship Award.
Dr. Carlson’s career is marked by a deep commitment to improving student outcomes through evidence-based practices and collaborative leadership. She has served in various roles, including Product Management at EPS Learning and Imagine Learning, Vice President of Research at Wilson Language Training, Invention Education Administrator at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Assistant Superintendent of Fall River Public Schools, and Elementary and Secondary Principal. In these positions, she led initiatives to enhance literacy instruction, developed and implemented innovative educational programs, and district-wide data systems to monitor student progress. Her leadership was pivotal in securing multi-million-dollar grants and raising student achievement rates in underperforming school districts.
As a passionate advocate for literacy and equity in education, Dr. Carlson has presented nationally on the role of implementation science in school reform, focusing on creating supportive climates for administrator and teacher development and improving literacy outcomes. She was also a Collaborative Teaching Fellow and Practicum Supervisor at Boston College, mentoring future educators and preparing them to thrive in urban education settings through the Donovan Scholars Program. Dr. Carlson’s extensive experience in K-12 and higher education underscores her holistic understanding of the educational landscape. In addition to her work stateside, she has been a mentor for the global organization Worldwide SHEroes, explicitly working with aspiring female education leaders in Africa.
Dr. Carlson is an active member of professional organizations such as the American Educational Research Association and the International Dyslexia Association. She was a stakeholder in developing the Massachusetts Dyslexia Guidelines, co-developed by the Departments of Elementary and Secondary Education and Early Education and Care, to implement specific requirements of An Act Relative to Students with Dyslexia, Chapter 272 of the Acts of 2018. In addition to her advocacy and lobbying for early access to education, she has co-authored several publications, including work on structured literacy and educational leadership. She has been invited to present at prestigious conferences nationwide.
Dr. Carlson lives in Providence, Rhode Island, with her husband and two sons, who inspire her daily. Her work continues to be guided by a passion for ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have access to high-quality education and the tools they need to succeed.
