DATA TEAM
Statement of Purpose
The purpose of the Data Team is to help manage the general data flow within the school and among the stakeholders. To this end, the team will perform three main functions.
- First, they will provide statistical support where needed.
- Second, they will aid in the interpretation and analysis of the general trends of the school, as well as help with any analytical projects that the Principal, Assistant Principals, or specific departments request.
- Finally, the team will serve as consultants to any research projects, including helping design evaluation tools for any experimental curricular, pedagogical, or structural changes to the school’s operations.
As data-based decision-making has become more prevalent in recent years, the Data Team has been formed to raise the general level of understanding and use of data throughout the school, and to help make these decision-making processes more clear, effective, and intentional.
Team Composition
The Data Team is not a standing committee. It is as group of changing composition that adjusts to address specific issues that arise. It is composed of a Core Team and several Project teams. The Core Data Team is be comprised of five members that generally meet in groups of three:
- Assistant Principals for Academics, Student Activities, and Campus Ministry.
- Professional Development Director (PDD)
- Educational Data Analyst (EDA)
Project teams are formed around specific topics of investigation. These teams are comprised of five to six people, depending on the size of the project:
- The Assistant Principal of the field responsible for the project.
- Professional Development Director
- Educational Data Analyst
- A topic specialist from within the field
- One or two faculty members from outside the project field
For example, an analysis of college placement could involve the EDA, the PDD, the APA, a college counselor, and a language teacher. An analysis of Community Service could include the EDA, the PDD, the APCM, the Community Service director, and a science teacher. An analysis of the Coaching Observation Program might include the EDA, the PDD, the APSA, one athletic director, and two former head coaches.
The reason for the at-large members of the team is three-fold. First, fresh eyes and a different perspective help to question assumptions. Second, more people involved in the process spreads the burden of the load and ensures transparency to the process. Third, potential future leaders within the school will emerge when given the opportunity to grow in this area.