Isn’t it strange how two people can see the same situation in two completely different ways? It speaks to the power of thoughts over circumstances. We have, if we so choose, the power to find the treasure or the trouble in anything.

For the last three months, I have watched the teachers and leaders I love (the ones I have witnessed making an undeniable impact on kids) feel defeated by VAM (Value-Added Model) scores and school grades. In supporting them, I have had the opportunity to reflect on my own love-hate relationship with data.

I’ve talked to countless educators this summer about the work they are doing to prepare for a new school year. Without exception, they all mention these four E’s in some form: Essential content; engaging lessons; effective strategies; efficient procedures