Blueprint Connections
Making decisions based on data is a part of a Blueprint district’s culture. The Blueprint emphasizes Problem-Solving and Performance Management as components that are integral to the success of system installation overall. Both of these components use data in slightly different ways to inform next steps for the district.
Within Performance Management, building-level data is analyzed on a regular basis to see if student performance is on track to meet the targets set by the district. Both academic and non-academic data are part of the data conversations which end with action plans to address the identified opportunities for growth. The decisions based on the data are fed up to the district level. The district also examines its own data on systems installation to track its own progress.
The Problem-Solving component utilizes data for identifying opportunities for growth, examining root causes, and determining the next right step for the district, building, or classroom. When barriers to student learning are identified, the use of a problem-solving protocol can help district or building teams quickly address and remove barriers.
In addition to data being used at the district and building levels, data is also used by classroom teachers individually and collectively to make day-to-day decisions about designing and delivering instruction and the levels of instructional support needed for individual students. Data is everywhere in schools and districts. Knowing what data to use and for what purpose is part of becoming a data-driven, decision-making district. As systems and routines are developed within the Blueprint, data is an essential component that helps districts know where they stand and where they want to move next.
“If schools are in the business of helping students learn, then the data used to guide decisions should relate directly to student achievement.”
~ Robert J. Marzano
