Work
The National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) is a nonpartisan research and policy organization focused on improving the quality and effectiveness of teachers. They use data-driven analysis to advocate for better teacher preparation, evaluation, and support systems nationwide.
We began partnering with NCTQ in 2020, serving as a strategic design and development partner across a range of complex, data-driven microsites that integrate directly with their internal databases. In addition to digital work, we design offline materials that support their core products, including long-form reports and research analysis. With this strong foundation, we were well positioned to reimagine their primary website and help them envision a more cohesive, user-friendly digital ecosystem.
NCTQ’s previous website was built on a solid but rigid CMS that made even simple updates feel complicated, and it didn’t offer the flexibility they needed to grow and evolve with their fast-paced work. Their digital ecosystem included a mix of databases, microsites, and tools that weren’t all housed in one place, which added to the complexity.
To tackle this, Teal partnered with their team to map out a thoughtful, three-phase digital roadmap — allowing us to gradually rebuild and streamline the system over time. All of this was happening alongside several major new product launches, which made timing and coordination even more important.
The first major release of NCTQ’s new website focused on a complete redesign, modernizing the look and feel while improving usability and scalability. This phase introduced a more intuitive navigation system, updated content strategy, and flexible tools that allow NCTQ to manage and showcase their work more effectively throughout the site.
Key features include:
Teal created a content strategy and navigation system to seamlessly integrate NCTQ’s suite of Data & Tools microsites into a unified WordPress Multisite platform. This included migrating existing microsites, implementing a global mega-menu and footer across all sites, and preserving each microsite’s complex technical setup. Throughout the process, Teal prioritized accessibility and ensured content continued to perform well in search results.
Beyond the website, Teal continues to partner with NCTQ to design complex research reports that align seamlessly with their digital tools and microsites. We also provide strategic design support across other media—email campaigns, video, and more—ensuring every touchpoint is thoughtfully executed and visually cohesive. Everything we create is crafted to reflect and reinforce the NCTQ brand.
Advocates for Children of New York (AFC) has a singular vision of an equitable and inclusive school system that provides an excellent education to all students.
The part where we ask you to cough up your email. So we can discuss all the amazing things we’re gonna do together. No pressure. Really.