The Ferguson Institute brings together educational leaders from districts across the country who embrace assessment as a tool for informing instruction. Through presentations and dialogue, these educators discuss innovative ways to make a positive impact on student achievement through thoughtful assessment practices.
The Ferguson Institute is named in honor of Curriculum Associates’ cofounder, Frank Ferguson, whose leadership and vision we celebrate through continuing his mission to make classrooms better places for teachers and students.
The first Ferguson Institute on the Evolution of Data successfully brought more than 60 educators representing 22 states and 43 districts together in Cambridge, Massachusetts on July 15–17, 2019. Educators were invited to attend based on their dedication and innovation within their districts as assessment, curriculum and instruction, and district leaders.
Many great ideas were exchanged at the Ferguson Institute, and a few themes emerged.
Catherine Matthews of Everett Public Schools, Everett, Washington, discusses an effective way to use student performance data to identify and close achievement gaps in a school or district environment.
For two years in a row, Miami-Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS), Florida, has received an “A” rating from the Florida Department of Education.
"Would you rather have headwinds or tailwinds?" Patricio Vargas, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services at Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District, California, posited this question as part of his captivating presentation.
This panel presentation brought together educators from three school districts across the United States who are focused on using data to inform equity initiatives in their home districts.
During the conference we were delighted to announce our inaugural Ferguson Institute Awards winners. The Ferguson Institute Awards are an opportunity to recognize those schools and individuals who have excelled in various categories and have made a positive impact on student learning. Three of the key areas that were celebrated at the 2019 Ferguson Institute Awards are “Stretch Growth®,” “Largest Change in Proficiency,” and “Instructional Usage with Fidelity.”
Growth above “Typical” That Puts Students Who Are Performing Below Grade Level on a Path toward Proficiency
Mathematics
Trailwoods Elementary School, Kansas City, Missouri Public Schools
Reading
Pulaski Elementary-Middle School, Detroit Public Schools Community District
A Substantial Increase in the Percentage of Students Reaching Proficiency in Mathematics
Grades K–5
Branford Elementary School, Suwannee County School District
Grades 6–8
Kaimuki Middle School, Hawaii State Department of Education
A Substantial Increase in the Percentage of Students Reaching Proficiency (an i‑Ready Grade-Level Placement of Mid On Grade Level or above) in Reading
Grades K–5
Dogwood Elementary School, Camdenton R-III School District
Grades 6–8
Elite Scholars Academy, Clayton County Public Schools
Implementing i‑Ready Personalized Instruction According to the Recommended Usage Guidelines
Mathematics
Verde Elementary School, the School District of Palm Beach County
Reading
Gautier Elementary School, Pascagoula-Gautier School District
Research Collaboration in Pursuit of Student Learning
Mark Howard and Paul Houchens, Palm Beach County School District
