Rome City School District launches innovative teacher collaboration program to strengthen instruction and support student success
The Rome City School District (CSD) is continuing to invest in its educators through a new initiative designed to strengthen collaboration, share best practices, and support improved learning experiences for students.
As part of Pillar Three of the district’s Strategic Plan: Empower Success Through Access and Support, Rome CSD launched the Peer Collaborator Program in the summer of 2025. The initiative was created around a simple belief: some of the most valuable professional learning happens when educators have opportunities to learn directly from one another.
The first year of the program brought together 26 teacher leaders representing elementary, secondary, and graduation support roles. Throughout the year, participants engaged in professional learning, collaboration sessions, and “Learning Walks” — non-evaluative classroom visits where teachers observed colleagues, shared ideas, and brought new strategies back to their own classrooms.
During the 2025–2026 school year, Peer Collaborators visited nearly 100 classrooms across the district. The program received strong feedback from participants, earning an average satisfaction rating of 4.4 out of 5, with Learning Walks receiving the highest rating at 4.6 out of 5.
Teachers shared that the experience helped build stronger relationships, increased confidence, and created more opportunities to celebrate the excellent work already happening throughout Rome CSD schools.
One educator shared: “Learning Walks are maybe the most beneficial professional learning I’ve done ... it made me proud to be a teacher in RCSD.”
Another participant reflected: “I love going to other rooms and buildings to see my colleagues do amazing things. It is truly inspiring.”
The program also reinforced the importance of collaboration and a culture where educators support one another.
“Teachers have learned so much from one another,” shared a participant.
The district will continue building on this momentum by expanding opportunities for teacher collaboration and strengthening Professional Learning Communities in the coming school year.
“Strong schools are built by strong educators,” said Jennifer DePerno, Rome CSD Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction. “When teachers have opportunities to collaborate, share ideas, and grow together, our students benefit from stronger instruction and richer learning experiences.”
The Peer Collaborator Program represents another example of Progress in Action — a commitment to continuous improvement, investing in people, and ensuring every student has access to the support needed to succeed.
About “Rome is Home: Progress in Action”
The Rome City School District is excited to introduce "Rome is Home: Progress in Action," a series highlighting ongoing initiatives and measurable accomplishments that support student success and reflect the district's commitment to continuous improvement.
Updates shared through "Rome is Home: Progress in Action” will highlight key areas that include academics, student safety, student support services, leadership development, community partnerships, and operational excellence. To learn more, please visit our “Rome is Home: Progress in Action” webpage.