**Ronka, D., Geier, R., & Marciniak, M. (2010). A practical framework for building a data-driven district or school: How a focus on data quality, capacity, and culture supports data-driven action to improve student outcomes. Public Consulting Group. https://publicconsultinggroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/edu_data-driven-district_practical-ideas_white_paper-1.pdf
This paper presents a practical framework for building a strong culture of data use within schools and districts, emphasizing three foundational conditions that must be in place: data quality, data capacity, and data culture. When these three conditions are deliberately established, data can meaningfully inform decisions related to policy, programs, classroom practice, and student placement. The authors highlight that systemic data use, rather than sporadic efforts, is key to achieving sustained improvement and stress the importance of leadership in creating a culture where data informs everyday decisions. Despite this reading being published 15 years ago, the framework it presents still has applicability in today’s context.
Knudson, J. (2020). Leveraging data for a culture of improvement: Priorities for district leaders. California Collaborative on District Reform. https://cacollaborative.org/sites/default/files/CA_Collaborative_Data.pdf
This brief explores how California school districts can use data to drive continuous improvement and promote equity in education. It was developed from insights shared at the June 2019 California Collaborative on District Reform meeting. The brief discusses the importance of building local data systems that go beyond compliance to inform meaningful decision-making. It focuses on four priorities: identifying the information needed, creating a culture of data use, fostering effective communication around data use, and working across institutions. Ultimately, it highlights how well-designed and thoughtfully-used data can strengthen educational outcomes for all California students.
**This document is a priority reading.