Data Walls That Drive Decisions: How Shenendehowa Built a Data-Driven Culture

Tier 2/3 students

28% 20%

-29%

Teacher data access

6 wks Day 1

Instant

Data in conversations

Rare Daily

The Problem

In 2021, Shenendehowa implemented a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) plan. While the plan provided a structured framework, the district lacked an efficient system to analyze data. Data collection was fragmented across multiple platforms, making it difficult to track and monitor student progress effectively. Even with an impressive 94% graduation rate, the district wanted more. "We won't be happy until all students reach their full potential," says Sara Schneller, Director of Student Learning & Data Accountability.

The Plan

1

Select platform and import existing data

Evaluated multiple options — customization was the deciding factor. Connected SIS, assessment, and behavior data.

Data Import Data Wall See example

Data Wall → Multi-Dimension View

StudentReadingMathAttend.Behavior

Jordan M. Below Appr. 94% 0

Aaliyah T. Appr. Below 87% 2

Marcus R. Below Below 76% 5

All data streams in one view. Stoplight colors make gaps visible instantly.
2

Build data walls for each grade level

6th grade teachers get full profiles of incoming students before Day 1. No more starting from scratch.

Data Wall Student Profile
3

Synchronize data across all buildings

District leadership sees tier counts across all 12 buildings. "We've seen our Tier 1/2 numbers steadily decline."

Data Wall Analytics Groups See example

Data Wall → District Tier View

Tier Distribution — All 12 Buildings

Tier 1: 72%Tier 2: 20%Tier 3: 8%

↓ Tier 2/3 down 4% since last quarter

Track whether MTSS is working at scale — one view across all buildings.

The Team

Sara Schneller led the platform selection and district strategy. Vanessa Cramer, the 6-12 instructional coach, designed data walls for middle school. Aaron Girard, the elementary data and instruction coach, synchronized data across all 11 buildings.

Sara Schneller — Director of Student Learning & Data Accountability

Vanessa Cramer — 6-12 Instructional Coach, data wall design

Aaron Girard — Elementary Data & Instruction Coach

Teachers across 12 buildings