Ninth grader Koomtes Xiong is crunching numbers and looking at statistics, but it’s not for a math class. This work is part of Westview High’s effort to help students understand their academic data and use it as a tool for improvement.

“Today, we’re looking at the PreACT questions,” said Xiong. “We’ll be able to understand what we need to improve on and understand what I’m already good at.”

Xiong and his freshmen classmates review recent scores and use the data to reflect on results and identify areas for growth. They call this activity “Test Prep Tuesday.”

“It’s very important that our students are aware of where they need to go and how to get there,” said Hoa Pham, Westview High assistant principal.

“We started last year when we realized that as staff and as a school, we know our data, but do the kids know their own?”

PreACT results are among several data points regularly shared with students. Westview High also reviews attendance, grades, ACT scores and on-track indicators with all students.

On-track data shows whether students are meeting the key milestones necessary to graduate on time, including attendance, course grades and credits. Westview High curriculum specialist Rachael Arens, Ed.D., says the school is seeing steady growth in its on-track data.

The work at Westview High is part of our district-wide focus on continuous school improvement. Schools are using data to enhance engagement, guide instruction and improve student outcomes.

“This isn't something that happened overnight. It's been an implementation of continuous conversations among the leadership team, staff and trickling down to the students,” said Arens. “This is a culture that you really have to believe in to make it work.”

Students review their own on-track data and trends across grades and classrooms. School-wide data is part of the conversation in advisement periods, school presentations, announcements and the school newsletter.

“We share it whenever we get the chance,” said Pham. “The students are very excited about it and are showing great interest in their data.”

Amber Myers, a Westview High curriculum specialist, says teachers are using the data to guide instruction.

“I like to narrow the data down to the skill level so teachers can have real conversations about how to enhance student skills, rather than just saying our students aren’t doing great in math,” said Myers. “It really is building transparency for us and helping us to maintain strong conversations about academics.”

By sharing this information early and consistently, Westview High believes this will empower students to identify challenges and stay focused on achieving their graduation goals.

“I think it’s important that the information is available, ” said Xiong. “The school wants students to succeed, and we want to do our best.”