The Importance of Evidence-Informed Decision Making in K-12 Education
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This week on The Parents' Solution, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Matthew Courtney, an educator, researcher, and policy maker committed to enhancing the education landscape. Dr. Courtney began his career as an elementary music teacher and now helps schools leverage educational research and data to drive continuous improvement in school districts, classrooms, and online tutoring services, ultimately benefiting all students.
During our discussion, Dr. Courtney emphasized the importance of staying connected to the classroom as a policy maker. This connection allows him to observe the realities faced by educators and students alike, ensuring that the policies developed reflect actual classroom needs. His transition into a policy-making role stemmed from frustration over the insufficient use of data and research in the school system.
As Dr. Courtney wisely noted, “Continuous improvement takes a dose of humility.” He underscored the necessity of intentional evidence-informed decision-making, which is essential for achieving lasting change in educational practices, including those found in the best online tutoring services and affordable online homeschool programs.
Dr. Courtney also highlighted the crucial role parents play in the school-improvement process. He shared practical tips for parents looking to advocate for their child’s educational needs, whether they’re seeking support through online tutoring for middle school students or looking into homeschool coaching services:
- Build a relationship with your child’s teachers to facilitate open communication about academic support services.
- Engage with the educational body to stay informed about the best online homeschool programs and other resources available.
- Know how to present yourself at educational-government meetings to ensure your voice is heard regarding your child’s education.
- Prioritize educational meetings to effectively advocate for your child’s needs.
Dr. Courtney brings a wealth of experience to the table, helping schools utilize evidence-based data effectively while reminding parents to be proactive and informed about their child’s education, whether through online tutoring for high school students or exploring online homeschool classes.
To learn more about Dr. Courtney and his work, visit his website: Matthew B. Courtney.