"Data is neither mystical nor magical. It is a tool along with many other tools in educators' hands. It can be used fairly or unfairly – justly or unjustly – equitably or inequitably. Equity in Data shows us how to make ethical, just decisions using data. This is an important book for all educators."
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- Dr. Gloria Ladson-Billings, University of Wisconsin
"Data makes the invisible visible, and that is especially important when it comes to just treatment of students.
If you are interested in equity in education, and shouldn’t that be all of us, this is a must read."
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- Jim Knight
About the Book
Your students are not just statistics. They aren’t simply a set of numbers or faceless
dots on a proficiency scale. They are vibrant collections of experiences, thoughts,
perspectives, emotions, wants, and dreams. And taken collectively, all of that
information is data—and should be valued as such.
Equity in Data not only unpacks the problematic nature of current approaches to data but also helps educators demystify and democratize data. It shows how we can bake equity into our data work and illuminate the disparities, stories, and truths that make our schools safer and stronger—and that help our students grow and thrive.
To this end, the authors introduce a four-part framework for how to create an equitable data culture (along with a complementary set of data principles). They demonstrate how we can rethink our approach to data in the interest of equity by making five shifts:
• Expand our understanding of data.
• Strengthen our knowledge of data principles.
• Break through our fear of data.
• Decolonize our data gathering processes.
• Turn data into meaningful, equitable action.
We have an opportunity to realign school data with what students want out of their
educational experiences. When we put equity first, we put students first.
“Equity in Data provides a timely framework for aspiring and current school leaders interested in learning how to make equitable evidence-based decisions. It is a must read for administrative leadership preparation programs and professional development programs for current principals.”
- Dr. Travis Bristol, Associate Professor, University of California,
Berkeley’s School of Education
“Compelling and brave, Equity in Data explores the most important work of an educator; creating equitable opportunities for ALL students to find success. A fearless, and comprehensive approach to data selection and analysis, using an equity lens, is essential to this work. This is the guidebook.”