Data and Data Analysis
Understanding and using data about school and student performance are fundamental to
improving schools. By analyzing and discussing data, schools are likely to identify and solve the
problems that need attention, identify appropriate solutions to those problems, and know how
they are progressing toward achievement of their goals.
Schools and school districts continue to operate in a setting of highly visible accountability while
dealing with daily challenges to progress and improvement. The need for a skilled staff able to
analyze and use the data and information readily available to plan, implement and guide instruction
is fundamental to the success of the organization.
Analysis of data is now a recommended step in any school or district improvement planning. This
task is not as simple as it sounds and many educators have little background with assessment results
or the implications that can be drawn. It is vital to identify the data that is useful as well as what
specifics will support the decisions that are needed.
We have processes that utilize high quality district and site data and involve site leaders and grade
level teachers in the analysis process. Both state and local assessment results are used to
determine school wide, grade level and individual student strengths and weaknesses. Factors contributing
to progress and detracting are identified and plans are developed that are practical and
immediately address the highest priority needs and issues.
As school staffs identify instructional focus areas and specific student populations, plans and
timelines are developed that can be monitored and adjusted throughout the year to determine
progress toward the goals. Ongoing analysis of data provides insights into midcourse changes
necessary to reach determined goals. This inclusive process, although brief in the time it takes,
has significant impact on the outcome of continuous improvement for all students.
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| Planned Elements of Data and Data Analysis
- Data Analysis that Guides Decisions
- Analyze current state and local test results
- Identify Strengths, Weaknesses, and Trends
- Identify school wide and subgroup progress and trends
- Set Goals, Build Plans, and Monitor Implementation
- Determine appropriate instructional goals for student populations
- Involve Teachers and Communicate Progress
- Work with teachers on a protocol to move beyond data to instructional
plans and products
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