Step 2 – Investigate

Use the tools below to support the root cause analysis for your LEA’s area(s) of significant disproportionality. You will report on your identified root causes and the supporting data in Activities 19-22.

Root Cause Analysis with a Cultural Lens (Fishbone Diagram – Ishikawa Cause and Effect) 

These materials are designed to work with the Ishikawa Cause and Effect Diagram, commonly known as the Fishbone diagram for performing a root cause analysis and should be performed with a trained facilitator. Before starting on the root cause analysis process, it is important to ensure that the team members are using a cultural lens when analyzing the data and when defining the issue and the possible solutions.

Root Cause Analysis with a Cultural Lens (Five Whys)

These materials are designed to work with the “Five Whys” method for performing a root cause analysis (RCA) and should be performed with a trained facilitator. Before starting on the root cause analysis process, it is important to ensure that the team members are using a cultural lens when analyzing the data and when defining the issue and the possible solutions.

Identifying the Root Causes of Disproportionality

Developed by New York University, this workbook functions as a tool to help determine the institutional and personal contributions to racial inequity in schools.

Behavioral Support Root Cause Analysis Workbook

New York University provides this assessment measure to help educators identify discipline outcomes in relationship to positive behavioral support systems.

Success Gaps Priority Setting Tool

For use by LEAs using the Success Gaps Rubric to support the prioritization of root causes of significant disproportionality.

“What is Root Cause Analysis” Training Video

Provides a brief description and example of root cause and the value of analyzing the root cause.

“Launching Your RCA Investigation” Training Video

Refer to your Annual Determination Letter to identify your LEA’s indicator(s) of significant disproportionality.

Initiative Inventory

The Initiative Inventory provides a structure for identifying initiatives the Local Educational Agency (LEA) currently has in place. It also guides the LEA to examine those initiatives, where they intersect, where there are gaps, and which students are not being served by the current initiatives. LEAs can then build their CIM for Sig Dis Plan for Improvement to provide alignment and to fill in where supports are not being provided to the students who need them to be successful academically and behaviorally in the general education environment.

Target Population Flow Chart (pdf)

The Flow Chart guides users through a process to determine criteria for the students in their LEA who will receive Comprehensive Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CCEIS). The document also contains federal regulations and guidance pertinent to identifying students to receive CCEIS.

CIM for CCEIS Target Population (video)

This recording illustrates the use of the Flow Chart with two examples from previous CCEIS plans. Nuances of clearly defining the target population is also shown using these examples.

Driver Diagram At-A-Glance

Provides information and guidance for developing a theory of action using the driver diagram.

Theory of Action Driver Diagram Template

This is a blank template that LEAs can use to document their theory of action.

Research-Based Strategies for Addressing Disproportionality in Special Education

This brief can assist LEAs in identifying strategies supported by evidence that they may want to consider as they develop their theory of action.