How to Identify the Right Data for Decision-Making

As a school principal or vice principal, you are constantly making decisions that impact students, teachers, and the broader school community. But how do you ensure that these decisions are grounded in the right data? More importantly, how do you account for the unique needs of different student subgroups to foster equity and improvement across the board?

Identifying the Right Data

The first step in data-driven decision-making is determining what data is relevant. While it’s tempting to rely on easily accessible metrics such as overall student achievement scores or attendance rates, these broad indicators may not tell the whole story. They are symptoms of a deeper issue. Consider the following when selecting data to analyze:

1. Align Data with Goals – Are you focused on improving literacy? Closing specific achievement gaps? Enhancing student engagement? Define your goals first (see my previous post), then identify data sources that best measure progress in these areas. This will also help you determine what data you are not going to prioritize so that you can help narrow your focus and avoid overwhelm.

2. Use Multiple Data Points – A single metric rarely provides a complete picture. Combine quantitative data (test scores, graduation rates, discipline referrals) with qualitative insights (student and teacher surveys, classroom observations, parent interviews) for a more comprehensive understanding.

3. Look at Trends Over Time – One-time data snapshots can be misleading. Examine trends over multiple years to identify consistent patterns rather than anomalies.

4. Compare with Benchmarks – Consider state, district, or national benchmarks to gauge performance and set realistic expectations.

Additionally, breaking down data by subgroups reveals insights that can inform more targeted interventions and strategies. Subgroup data matters for several reasons:

• Equity-Focused Decision Making – A school might appear to be performing well on average, but subgroup data could show that certain students are not benefiting equally. This allows leaders to tailor support where it is most needed.

• Early Identification of Gaps – Subgroup analysis helps identify achievement gaps before they widen, allowing for early intervention.

• Personalized Interventions – Instead of applying one-size-fits-all solutions, educators can implement strategies that address the specific challenges of different student populations.

Once you have the right data, the key is using it effectively:

• Engage Stakeholders – Share findings with teachers, counselors, and other staff to develop collaborative action plans.

• Create Targeted Interventions – Use subgroup insights to tailor instructional approaches, resource allocation, and student support services.

• Monitor & Adjust – Data analysis is an ongoing process. Regularly review subgroup performance and adjust strategies as needed.

• Communicate Transparently – Keep families and the community informed about your data-driven initiatives and how they benefit all students.

Making informed decisions as a school leader requires looking beyond surface-level numbers and diving into subgroup data. By identifying the right data points and analyzing them through an equity lens, you can create more targeted, effective, and inclusive policies that support the success of every student in your school.

What data trends have you found most helpful in making decisions at your school? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments!

This document from Ohio Dept of Ed will help you figure out what student and adult data you should look at and how often