Data | leadership

DATA COMPETENCY

Analysis & Reflection:

"You can have data without information,

but you cannot have information without data."

— Daniel Keys Moran

It is not until I entered my internship that I realized the importance of data. Although I do not think data should be the sole measurement of progress, I do think it is very important to consider when setting and prioritizing goals, making decisions, creating next steps, and monitoring progress. I have learned, when looking at data it is important to have multiple perspectives. Very often, we examine data from the lens we want the data to reflect. This becomes a very narrow view, which can lead to actions that are not necessarily most appropriate for the situation. It can lead to decisions that are more self-centered rather than for the greater benefit of the whole community.

I have realized it is important to gather data from multiple sources on a regular basis. Data allows one to continuoulsy revisit the goal and think about what needs to be tweaked in order to make greater gains. For example, I developed a system for collecting data to track progress toward our instructional focus of classroom talk. Noticing after the first few learning walks that we were making very few gains, this made me pause to think about what can we do differently to make more significant progress. Rather playing the blame game or becoming discouraged, I had to learn the hard way that if you do not see major progress from the data, use it as a tool for introspection. There is always something that can be done to improve the current situation, hence it becomes key to reflect on both my own practice as well as the actions of others (as the data may be an indicator of staff's mindsets). In order for there to be progress, there needs to be sustainable, transformative change, which does not occur overnight. One cannot impose change.

All decisions should be based on some sort of data. For example, we decided to revamp our Professional Development as a result of data indicating dissatisfaction of PD. To check to see if such changes were for the better, we have collected surveys monthly regarding PD satisfaction We have noticed that staff is now speaking highly about PD and levels of satisfaction are increasing. The fact much of the staff looks forward to Professional Development is a good indicator that the action plan based from data is working effectively. It is clear, one must continuously engage in the inquiry process of assess, analyze, and take action in order for progress to truly happen.

Elements of Data Competency

A school leader uses data to set high learning goals and increase student achievement. The effective use of data is demonstrated in the following elements:

01

Demonstrates ability to understand and analyze data from multiple sources.

Artifacts

As a part of my Curriculum class, I created a Professional Development Plan to improve upon the currently successful plan we have in place. The rationale and action plan were grounded in research.

02

Uses data to identify student learning trends, set goals, monitor and modify instruction, and increase student achievement.

Artifacts

Shadow a Student Experience

After reading an article about a teacher's experience shadowing a student for a few days, my principal and I decided to recreate that experience for all teachers on our staff. With the assistance of office staff, eachers were given a schedule of a student part of a grade they do no typically teach and expected to take part in all activities that the student does: classwork, gym activities, etc. We used this to ground our conversation about improving our own practice to foster student engagement. All teachers remarked this was a very powerful experience for them.

SHADOWING EXPERIENCE

Notable Testimonial

"I was very grateful for the opportunity to see what life is like through the eyes of our learners. Today was such a joy for me. I got a new perspective on how busy, exciting, different, and multidimensional their day can be. Exploring the different disciplines and seeing a myriad of teaching styles was extremely useful. Plus, I was able to make connections with students that I might not have even crossed paths with had I not had this experience. What's more, it was a great culture building tool because it helps the students to see the teachers in a different light. I will admit that prior to today I was a little nervous, but I am glad our school took the initiative to try out this innovative way of developing teachers. I am sure it will help to me develop my curriculum and strengthen my instructional practices. Thank you for this."

— ELA teacher at HSGC

03

Develops school culture and practices that rely on data to inform adult learning, professional development, and decision-making.

Artifacts

Learning Walk Checklist Template
Learning Walk Feedback

As a means of collecting data on the impact of our monthly Professional Learning Communities on changing teacher practices, I organized a monthly learning walk that focuses on several elements of student-to-student discussion (our school's current instructional focus). Various people on staff have volunteered to participate in the learning walk including administration and teachers. Feedback is then provided schoolwide via email.