Examine data across subgroups and account for diversity within subgroup categories before interpreting score differences¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

The guide's first actionable recommendation directs leaders to disaggregate data across subgroups and, where relevant, within them. It states leaders "should also analyze data to account for diversity of student experiences within subgroup categories, such as across different income brackets within the FRL category or across native languages of multilingual learner students." This helps pinpoint where targeted interventions are necessary.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Requires access to subgroup-disaggregated data, which many districts' MAP Growth reporting currently lacks per the guide

Constraints¶

• Applies only where and when it is possible and relevant to analyze within-category diversity

Target Learners¶

• K-12 students across subgroups defined by race/ethnicity, income, language background, and disability status

Target Learning Goals¶

• Equitable interpretation of assessment data to identify students needing additional support

Related Strategies¶

• Identify cross-subgroup themes and combine broad access-expanding policies with targeted subgroup-specific interventions
• Disaggregate attainment data by student subgroup to locate barriers and target supports
• Frame subgroup score discussions around subgroup overlap and access to opportunity
• Districts should share sufficient subgroup data with assessment providers to enable multi-subgroup disaggregation
• Examine literacy screening data for intersectional differences not apparent from simple disaggregation and consider student and school characteristics together when targeting supports
• Five actions for school and district leaders to improve family engagement with young learners
• Disaggregate engagement and performance data by subgroup and regularly evaluate and adjust support plans
• Apply a set of dos and don'ts when examining school performance data to decide school support options

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• NWEA. (2026). A practical guide for considering and interpreting test score differences among student subgroups. https://www.nwea.org/research/publication/a-practical-guide-for-considering-and-interpreting-test-score-differences-among-student-subgroups/