Elevating Rigor Schoolwide with the Marzano Taxonomy
Strengthening rigor doesn’t happen by chance—it requires a shared understanding of cognitive complexity and a consistent approach to task design across classrooms. This session equips school leaders with the tools and insights needed to support rigorous instruction using the Marzano Taxonomy as a clear, strategic framework. Leaders will learn how to:
• Analyze classroom tasks and learning targets for appropriate levels of cognitive complexity;
• Guide teachers in aligning tasks to the true intent and rigor of standards;
• Use the Marzano Taxonomy to calibrate expectations, strengthen coaching conversations, and monitor instructional growth. Participants will leave with practical strategies that help build a culture of rigorous, standards-aligned instruction across the school.
Julie Bettis
Julie Bettis is a dedicated and experienced educator with 34 years in public education, serving as an elementary teacher, Instructional Coach, and Principal in Wichita Public Schools—the largest district in Kansas. Since 2017, she has worked with Instructional Empowerment and the Marzano Evaluation Center as a Staff Developer, School Leadership Coach, and District Lead, supporting teachers and administrators across multiple states.
As a principal in an urban setting, Julie successfully led her schools through continuous improvement efforts, utilizing the Marzano Teacher Evaluation framework and Essentials for Achieving Rigor to enhance instructional effectiveness. Passionate about serving at-risk students, she has led three schools with significant populations of students in poverty and English Language Learners (ELL). Her expertise spans school improvement, Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and Turnaround Schools.
Julie thrives on coaching schools and districts nationwide, helping them connect and align their efforts for optimal results. She brings a deep knowledge of best practices, coupled with enthusiasm, warmth, and a commitment to making professional learning engaging and impactful.
Driven by her belief in the transformative power of education, Julie remains committed to empowering students and educators. She holds a Master’s in School Leadership from Friends University and a BSE from the University of Kansas. Additionally, she participated in the Harvard Graduate School of Education Summer Institute for Turnaround Principals.
Session Details
Audience: School Leader
Difficulty Level: Novice/Intermediate