How can K-12 educators use data to identify and support at-risk students?

1 Define at-risk students

The first step to use data to support at-risk students is to define what at-risk means in your context. There is no universal definition of at-risk students, as different factors and indicators may vary by grade level, subject, school, district, or state. However, some common factors that may contribute to student risk include low attendance, low achievement, low engagement, behavioral issues, poverty, homelessness, disability, or trauma. You can use data from multiple sources, such as standardized tests, grades, attendance records, surveys, or observations, to create a profile of at-risk students in your school or classroom.

2 Identify at-risk students

Once you have a clear definition of at-risk students, you can use data to identify them as early as possible. Early identification can help you prevent or reduce the negative consequences of risk factors and provide timely and appropriate support. You can use data to screen all students for risk indicators, such as academic performance, attendance, or behavior, and flag those who need further assessment or intervention. You can also use data to group students by risk level, such as low, moderate, or high, and prioritize your resources and actions accordingly.

3 Monitor at-risk students

Identifying at-risk students is not enough; you also need to monitor their progress and needs on a regular basis. Monitoring can help you track the changes in student risk status, identify the strengths and challenges of each student, and adjust your support strategies as needed. You can use data to monitor at-risk students in different ways, such as formative assessments, progress reports, portfolios, feedback, or conferences. You can also use data to communicate with students, parents, or other stakeholders about student goals, achievements, or concerns.

4 Intervene with at-risk students

Monitoring at-risk students can help you identify the gaps and barriers that prevent them from reaching their potential and success. To address these gaps and barriers, you need to intervene with evidence-based strategies that match the needs and interests of each student. You can use data to inform your intervention decisions, such as selecting the type, intensity, duration, or frequency of the intervention, and tailoring it to the student's learning style, preferences, or motivations. You can also use data to differentiate your instruction, provide personalized feedback, or scaffold your support.

5 Evaluate the impact of your interventions

The final step to use data to support at-risk students is to evaluate the impact of your interventions on student outcomes and risk factors. Evaluating can help you determine the effectiveness and efficiency of your interventions, identify the best practices and lessons learned, and celebrate the successes and achievements of your students. You can use data to evaluate your interventions in different ways, such as summative assessments, benchmarks, rubrics, or portfolios. You can also use data to reflect on your own practice, identify your strengths and areas for improvement, and plan for future actions.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?