Dr. Kim Rank of the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU) has earned national recognition for her leadership in transforming how schools use research to spark lasting, meaningful change. Featured in the Educational Knowledge Broker Network’s newsletter, Dr. Rank is spotlighted for her pioneering efforts in bridging research and real-world practice in education.

Dr. Rank, a fellow of the University of Delaware’s CREATE Ed program (Collaboration, Research, Equity, and Action Together), serves as a bridge between educational research and practical implementation. Her work equips school leaders and educators with the tools and strategies needed to apply evidence-based practices that improve student outcomes and strengthen school communities.

“Dr. Rank’s leadership exemplifies the power of translating knowledge into action,” said Dr. George F. Fiore, executive director of the CCIU. “Her work supports educators in building systems of sustainable improvement, grounded in research and deeply connected to the communities they serve.”

In her role as director of special projects at the CCIU, Dr. Rank plays a vital role in helping schools implement the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s (PDE) Cycle of Improvement. She supports schools in conducting needs assessments, collecting stakeholder feedback, and aligning data with research-based interventions housed in the Pennsylvania Evidence-Based Research Center—a digital tool co-managed by the CCIU.

“One specific example is climate and culture,” she explained. “As a result of using the evidence-based resource center and adopting restorative practices, one school saw a 25% decrease in discipline referrals over a one-year period.”

Through her involvement with the Educational Knowledge Broker Network, Dr. Rank also collaborates with a national community of professionals who share and apply research to address real-world education challenges. “It’s a collaborative process. It’s not done in a silo,” she said. “We want to make sure every voice is heard.”

Her approach emphasizes capacity-building, sustainability, and continuous reflection. “School improvement isn’t just for schools identified by PDE; it is a good practice for all schools—taking that deeper dive and connecting the research to boots-on-the-ground work,” she noted.

Dr. Rank’s work continues to influence not only Chester County but also the broader educational landscape, underscoring the value of knowledge brokering in promoting lasting, meaningful change. For more information about the Chester County Intermediate Unit and its school improvement initiatives, visit www.cciu.org.