What should school leaders regularly analyze to drive instructional improvement?

School leaders should prioritize the analysis of formal assessments and school grade data to drive instructional improvement because these metrics provide concrete, quantifiable evidence of student learning and performance. By regularly reviewing assessment results, school leaders can identify trends, strengths, and areas for growth within their student population. This data-driven approach enables leaders to make informed decisions about curriculum adjustments, targeted interventions, and professional development needs for educators, ultimately supporting the goal of enhancing student achievement.

In contrast, while educator feedback can be beneficial for understanding teaching effectiveness, it may not provide the same objective clarity as formal assessments. Classroom decor, although it can contribute to an engaging learning environment, does not directly correlate with instructional improvement. Parking lot capacity is unrelated to educational outcomes and does not impact teaching and learning processes. Therefore, focusing on formal assessments and school grade data is essential for evidence-based decision-making in educational leadership.