Diving into the data opened my eyes to how our schools are judged by the county, states, and our country. Stepping into this leadership role gave me an opportunity to use data analytics to improve my schools’ performance. It also gives me a chance to better assist the teachers in improving instruction for our students and begin to research best practices to strengthen our weak areas. Over the years it was administrators who present the data to the staff members, and I was always one of those teachers who would sometimes tune out because we didn’t want to hear the information. While locating the data and creating the presentation, I took ownership of the data and became more determined to make the necessary changes to improve student achievement.
I am hoping this presentation will positively impact my school’s school improvement plan. One piece of information that I feel is necessary to discuss is that although we are looking at numbers, those numbers represent students, children. We have to understand that we are shaping children’s lives and that the data paints a small picture of who these children are. What is their background, history, and emotional history? Although the data can show strengths and weaknesses are important for schools and teachers to improve their lessons and utilize best practices, but we must also keep in mind these are children, and that the assessments are a snapshot of one moment in time.
I am hoping this presentation will positively impact my school’s school improvement plan. One piece of information that I feel is necessary to discuss is that although we are looking at numbers, those numbers represent students, children. We have to understand that we are shaping children’s lives and that the data paints a small picture of who these children are. What is their background, history, and emotional history? Although the data can show strengths and weaknesses are important for schools and teachers to improve their lessons and utilize best practices, but we must also keep in mind these are children, and that the assessments are a snapshot of one moment in time.