After receiving and analyzing the state testing results (more on analysis can be found here), it’s time to share them with your staff.
Engaging staff in meaningful discussions about student performance data can significantly enhance their understanding and connection with the results. Instead of relying on traditional slides, the following methods encourage teachers to explore and engage with data reports actively and interactively, mirroring the engagement we seek in classrooms. These approaches foster collaboration, insight, and actionable strategies for improvement while also saving time and energy by shifting the focus to the teachers.
Here are three interactive methods to analyze and discuss student performance data with your staff.
Collaborative Content-Based Analysis
Group teachers by their respective content areas and provide them with the relevant reports, ELA or Math. Using guiding questions related to subgroups and grade-levels, ask each group to annotate the report with comments and questions. Facilitate a whole-group discussion to share findings and address any questions.
I enjoy this activity because it encourages teachers to delve deeply into data relevant to their specific subjects, even if they initially have little to no knowledge about the report.
Through exploration, they construct their understanding and connect with the information rather than passively receiving it. This process fosters a sense of ownership and accountability among educators
Skill-Focused Curriculum Review
Provide the top and bottom third averages in Math and ELA. Ask educators to return to their curriculum and identify the skills that students struggled the most in. Group teachers in three, with each teacher representing one grade below and one grade above. Is there a common thread in struggling skills or standards? What are the patterns? Reveal the skills that students struggled most in and see if they relate to the gaps noted from the curriculum.
This approach helps teachers identify potential learning gaps across grades and strategically plan to bridge those gaps to create a continuum of skill-based proficiency. Ultimately, this method promotes vertical collaboration, ensuring that all grade levels are working cohesively toward improving student outcomes.
Interactive Data Visualization
Provide teachers with a graphic organizer that includes sub-groups, demographics, and skills. Using the reports, ask teachers to complete the graphic organizer or mimic it on chart-paper. Engage teachers in a gallery-walk or create a new group where they share out their findings.
This activity transforms data analysis into a visual and interactive experience, making it easier for teachers to identify trends and patterns. It also promotes a collaborative environment where teachers can learn from each other’s insights and experiences.
Allow Teachers to Explore First
Of course, you can present the results via slides if necessary, but do so after teachers have had the opportunity to engage with the material.
Why?
By shifting from passive reception to active engagement, we mirror the teaching practices that teachers aim to cultivate in their classrooms. It also provides teachers with a chance to be part of the leadership community by engaging in data-analysis skills, traditionally a leader's undertaking.
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