Data Driven Instruction
At Ellicott, Data-Driven Instruction is more than a best practice—it is a vital tool for ensuring equitable, high-quality learning. By using assessment data to guide instruction, our educators provide targeted support, close achievement gaps, and create clear pathways for every student to achieve success.
| Strategic Priority Two | |
|---|---|
| Why is this important? | Data-Driven Instruction (DDI) is a strategic priority for Ellicott School District because it empowers educators to make informed, intentional decisions that directly address the diverse academic needs of our students. As a rural district serving a significant number of students from low-income backgrounds and military-connected families, Ellicott recognizes that DDI is not merely a best practice but a critical tool for ensuring equitable access to high-quality learning. By systematically analyzing and responding to assessment data, our educators are able to provide targeted support, close achievement gaps, and create pathways for every student to reach their fullest potential. Research demonstrates that schools implementing structured data use see measurable improvements in teaching quality and student achievement, particularly when paired with professional collaboration and support (Hamilton et al., 2009; Marsh, Pane, & Hamilton, 2006). |
| Action steps related to the priority | -Professional Development around the use of data -PLCs implementing and assessing data to increase impact on all student populations. -MTSS district process to ensure that all students’ academic needs are met. |
| Evidence of Implementation | – Using MTSS as a systematic approach to support all students – Interventions created to support student needs using informal and formal assessments – PLC Meetings & Agenda Notes – Benchmark district level assessments and national level assessments completed. |
| Evidence of Impact | – Interventions for students with an MTSS plan – Teachers engage with data more frequently – Increase in identification of GT students |