Ferndale Schools was featured in a statewide Bridge Michigan article on how Michigan schools are approaching literacy and student growth. As the article highlights, our approach to data has shifted. We use a layered approach that digs deeper into classroom and student-level data to inform instruction and supports. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made, and we know the work continues. Each step forward brings us closer to ensuring every student thrives. Read the full article here:
https://bridgemi.com/.../michigan-schools-are.../
Ferndale's feature section below:
Ferndale: diving into data
In Ferndale outside Detroit, school leaders say better data is one reason the district achieved one of the state’s biggest jumps in third grade literacy.
Since the pandemic, proficiency in English at Ferndale Public Schools has increased to 48.4% from 37%.
District leaders regularly monitor student and classroom data and check scores and progress on upper elementary grades. Data monitoring increases for students who are behind and they’re given extra support like small group instruction.
Superintendent Camille Hibbler credits a grant-funded K-3 literacy coach’s “pivotal” support to teachers and helping teachers understand student data.
“It’s taking what we see on the paper and translating that into what needs to happen in the classroom to make those gains that we have been seeing.”
The district recently switched curriculum and has also emphasized teacher training.
Monitoring student data more frequently or closely can allow districts to pivot quicker on changes to teaching. Statewide, there is $11.5 million for districts to administer reading and math tests throughout the year.