What are the benefits of sending student demographic data to the DESSA System?

Overview

This article explains the benefits of adding student demographic data to your rostering imports and how it can improve your data analysis after rating in the DESSA System.

What are the benefits of sending student demographic data to the DESSA System? 

Following each rating period, Aperture Education recommends engaging in a data review process that includes reviewing and acting upon your DESSA data. Sending your district or program’s student demographic data provides an additional layer of information to engage in this process more meaningfully. If present, you would be able to disaggregate, or separate, student-level data by important subgroups, such as student race and ethnicity, English language learner status, free or reduced-priced lunch, special education services, etc. In this format, you can answer questions such as: 

• Are there differences in social and emotional competence by student subgroups? 
• Do these disaggregated results suggest a need for reflection, discussion, or professional development? 
• What supports are in place for this group of students? 
• Are differential instructional supports warranted for certain groups of students? 

This differentiated approach is essential to addressing equity gaps and supporting equitable outcomes. By taking the time to upload student demographic data, you are committed to optimizing social and emotional programming for all your students.