ABSTRACT
This chapter describes a process for analyzing data to plan for continuous schoolwide improvement. Data analysis in schools may be approached in many ways, and the effectiveness of school processes may be measured in many ways. The School Portfolio is a framework for continuous school improvement. Gathering evidence around the few categories of a school portfolio results in the story of one's school and becomes a self-assessment. It is important to understand how student and community populations have changed over time, as these changes are indicators of student characteristics to plan for in the future. Staff longevity within the system and plans for retirement might lead to establishing different types of school improvement plans, as would staff experiences, certification, and levels of education. A school defines its destination through its vision, goals, and standards. The school’s destination falls under the umbrella of the district’s vision, goals, and standards which, in turn, are aligned with the state vision, goals, and standards.
