Insights from the 2024 ALTA National Conference: Jan Hasbrouck

I am thrilled to share insights from the ALTA National Conference presentation titled "Educators as Physicians: Using Data From Reading Assessments for Professional Decision-Making" by Jan Hasbrouck, Ph.D.

This enlightening session offered a comprehensive perspective on leveraging reading assessment data to inform instructional practices effectively.

Here's a breakdown of the key takeaways:

• Data as a Flashlight, Not a Hammer: Dr. Hasbrouck emphasized the shift in mindset from viewing data as a punitive tool to utilizing it as an illuminating flashlight. Data should affirm, remind, and expand educators' understanding of student needs rather than being wielded as a punitive measure.

• The Three-Part Philosophy of Assessments: The presentation outlined a pragmatic approach to assessments in schools, emphasizing the need to strike a balance between assessment and instruction. Educators are urged to conduct assessments efficiently, using the results to inform their professional practice promptly.

• The SAILS Approach: Dr. Hasbrouck introduced the SAILS framework, emphasizing the importance of aligning Standards, Assessments, Instruction & Intervention, Leadership, and Sustained Commitment to optimize student success.

• The Professional Parallel: Drawing parallels between education and healthcare, the presentation highlighted the tiered intervention model, emphasizing the need for increasing time, intensity, data collection, and expertise to support students effectively.

• The Purpose of Data: The overarching purpose of data collection in education is to enhance professional decision-making. Dr. Hasbrouck underscored the importance of collecting efficient, appropriate, and useful data to guide instructional practices.

• Utilizing Curriculum-Based Measures (CBM): CBM emerged as a valuable tool for assessing student progress, with an emphasis on measuring the number of words read correctly per minute (ORF) as an indicator of general reading ability.

• Starting the Assessment Process: The presentation offered practical insights into initiating the assessment process, beginning with benchmark screening to identify students in need of additional support.

In conclusion, "Educators as Physicians" provided a roadmap for educators and reading specialists to navigate the complex terrain of data-driven decision-making in education. By embracing assessments as tools for illumination and adopting evidence-based practices, we can pave the way for student success.

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