The GMS Partners team is committed to providing high level, client-centered, systemic support that is unparalleled in terms of our responsiveness to client needs. We do not, as a rule, participate in one-time efforts at professional development that run the risk of reinforcing "tinkering around the edges" approaches to school improvement. We instead choose to commit to a client over time to ensure that their goals and objectives are met.

We do not provide a "model" or pre-programmed design in our work. GMS utilizes research, best practices, and the skill set of its diverse team to tap into and deepen the existing capacity at the district, school, and community level.

A typical agreement would begin with a needs analysis and agreement on the vision and goals. We then work to establish, in conjunction with district and school staff, as well as any other consultant support, a plan that will ensure that the school achieves the project outcomes. What emerges is a combination of on-site and off-site support that consists of:

• assessment and strategic planning
• coaching,
• facilitated work sessions,
• workshops,
• institutes and seminars, and
• resource identification and grant writing.

In addition, we provide specific Battling the Hamster Wheel^TM support strategies.