Which standard emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision making for school improvement?

The Standard for Instructional Leadership highlights the significance of data-driven decision making as a vital component for school improvement. This standard focuses on how school leaders can utilize data to inform their practices, identify areas for growth, and implement strategies that effectively address the needs of both students and educators. By relying on data, instructional leaders can pinpoint trends and gaps in student achievement, which enables them to make informed decisions about curriculum, instruction, and resource allocation. This approach ensures that initiatives and changes are grounded in evidence, leading to more targeted and effective improvements within the school.

In contrast, the other standards address different aspects of educational leadership. The Standard for Effective Teaching concurs with best instructional practices but does not specifically prioritize data usage in decision-making. The Standard for Student Engagement underscores the importance of fostering active participation among students, yet it does not focus primarily on data assessments. Lastly, the Standard for Community Partnerships emphasizes collaboration with families and the community, which is crucial for creating supportive educational environments but is distinct from the use of data in driving instructional improvements. Thus, the emphasis on data-driven decision making clearly aligns with the Standard for Instructional Leadership.