We ran the best schools in the country — and proved that a student's zip code doesn't have to predict their achievement.
It's an execution problem, and we've spent 20 years building the solution. Now we give you everything we built: the playbook, the PD, and the coaching to see results this year, not in three years.
93%
of schools improve in math
90%
of schools improve in ELA
54%
improve proficiency by double digits
For school, district, and network leaders who are ready to stop reinventing the wheel and start leading truly great schools — without burning out in the process.
Everything you need. Already built.
The Playbook
A comprehensive, turnkey system covering readiness, 5 arcs of the year, and every coaching and PD tool you'll ever need — already built, ready to use.
Coaching and Site Visits
We roll up our sleeves and get into your schools with you — hands-on, precise, and focused on moving the needle fast.
Professional Development
Best-in-class summer PD and ongoing leader development — designed and led by educators who have actually done this work at the highest level.
The Resource Library
Every script, template, and tool you need — coaching meeting guides, practice clinics, readiness deliverables — all in one place.
Our Story
Doug McCurry and Riley Bauling spent a combined four decades proving that a student's zip code doesn't have to determine their future. Doug co-founded Achievement First with a goal most people thought was impossible. Riley built the practices that made it real — going from AF's highest-performing math teacher to principal to regional superintendent, leading schools to results no one thought possible. Twenty-one years later, AF schools serving students where 85% qualified for free lunch were ranked #1 in Connecticut and Rhode Island and schools in Brooklyn that outperformed the wealthiest districts in New York state.
But when they left and began working with schools across the country, they kept seeing the same thing. Great leaders. Great intentions. And no playbook. Leaders who knew their students were capable of so much more — but didn't have the skills or systems to get there. They didn't need another framework to figure out alone. They needed someone to hand them exactly how.
Simply Great Schools exists for those leaders.
What School Leaders Are Saying
“Simply Great Schools stands out for their ability to translate a clear vision for excellence into practical, day-to-day practices that actually stick. Expectations for students have risen — and our students have risen to the occasion, producing rigorous, meaningful work that reflects deeper thinking and ownership of learning. This is the best work out there."
— Thomas Thao, Executive Director, New Millennium Academy
"Partnering with Simply Great Schools has transformed our school, making the incredibly hard work of driving results — simple. The resources have made our leadership team more effective as instructional coaches, and allowed us to spend more time doing the leadership work that matters. I highly recommend SGS for any organization looking to develop leaders who can effectively coach teachers to drive student achievement."
— Casey Crews, Head of Schools, Breakthrough Public Schools
“SGS keeps the main thing the main thing, and that clarity has been transformative for our work. We have become more strategic and focused in both teacher and leader development — building capacity in a way that is safe, joyful, and transferable. Doug and Riley have been incredible — supportive, honest, and direct — while creating a judgment-free space for growth. I wholeheartedly believe Tulsa Legacy will run stronger, better schools because of their care and dedication."
— Jennifer Greene, Executive Director, Tulsa Legacy Charter Schools
Ready to lead a truly great school?
Let’s talk about what’s possible for your school or network.
