Data Meetings Can be Fun!

Smiling faces, collaborating, planning, sharing, dreaming, and supporting are all words that come to mind when describing a recently observed data meeting at Graham Elementary School. Reading coach, Jody Parker, Principal Melissa Dyer, and teachers from 2nd and 3rd grade accomplished plenty in the two hour session.

For school improvement to occur, the classroom teachers must be involved. Data meetings help make this happen! Looking at data, such as the Balanced Scorecard and Dibels mid-semester scores alone does little to generate discussion, but reviewing between consecutive grades offers an opportunity for open communication about weaknesses and provides time for teachers to brainstorm about remedying gaps in learning. No one understands better a teacher's frustration from a student not progressing than a colleague, especially one who has previously taught the child.

Testing time adds stress to an already full plate, but discussing tools, such as Alabama Coach Reading and Math, during the data meetings allows teachers to share how they are using the materials and if they aren't, what they can do to start. There is strength in numbers and the beauty of the teaching profession is that it a team effort. This effort was apparent in this Graham bunch.

Just as children like a small group setting, data meetings offer time for teachers to voice concerns or ideas that they might not be willing to share in a large faculty meeting. As new materials were discussed such as Read Naturally and Comprehension Toolkits, teachers had an opportunity to learn about their co-workers implementation plans. This congenial group listened and learned from each other.

Not only was data discussed, but this time frame offered an opportunity to talk about Accelerated Reader testing and trips, Young Author's Day, and reflect on a recent author visit. These types of activities keep the school alive and the students interested. Plus, these fun happenings provide a whole lot of learning!

A walkthrough of the school probably would not have revealed as much as this data meeting. I'm glad ARI Principal Coach Tricia Corbett and the Alabama State Department made the suggestion.