Shaped

A community-driven blog supporting educators, building lifelong learners, and shaping the future of education.* 

 

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Featured Posts

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Unlocking the Power of Big Data in Education 

Big data in education is reshaping how schools identify learning needs and personalize instruction. Learn how thoughtful data use can help districts take meaningful action that supports every student.

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How to align instruction with the science of reading

Meeting the AI Moment in Education—and How We Get It Right

AI is reshaping education—discover how to harness its potential and ensure we get it right for learners everywhere.

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Using Assessment Data to Inform Instruction

Explore why using assessment data to inform instruction is key to making informed teaching decisions and improving student achievement.

Jonathan Fine

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6 Components of Structured Literacy: What Every Teacher Should Know

Discover the six essential components of Structured Literacy and why they matter for every classroom.

Miah Daughtery, EdD

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Practical Strategies for Teaching with Technology in the Classroom

Teaching with technology in the classroom helps educators boost engagement and personalize learning. Explore practical strategies for using digital tools effectively.

Shaddoe Lambert

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Latest Posts

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What is Universal Screening in Education?

Learn about what is universal screening in education and how this proactive, school-wide process helps teachers spot student needs and inform instruction.

Jennifer Corujo
Shaped Editor

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Benefits of Formative Assessment

Formative assessment is the ongoing process of gathering evidence of learning throughout instruction and using it to adjust instruction. Learn more about the benefits of formative assessment.

Dr. Michael J. Bolz
Principal Learning Experience Designer, HMH

Hero Blog Post Using assessment data to inform instruction Hero

Using Assessment Data to Inform Instruction

Explore why using assessment data to inform instruction is key to making informed teaching decisions and improving student achievement.

Jonathan Fine
Shaped Contributor

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Quiz: Are Learning Needs Going Unmet in Your Schools?

Take our quick quiz to reflect on your current practices, identify blind spots, and take the first step toward a more cohesive instructional system.

Shaped Staff

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Why Is Data Important in Education?

Explore why data is important in education through effective collection, analysis, and data-driven instruction that supports student success.

Dr. Stephan Knobloch
Sr. Director Academic Planning & Analytics, HMH

Galvestonhero

How a Texas District Achieved Literacy Growth with Integrated Edtech Solutions

When Galveston ISD leaders saw a notable dip in student performance, they decided to set forth on a growth journey—starting with the implementation of integrated edtech solutions. We sat down with Galveston leaders and educators to discuss the district's plan of action that resulted in incredible student gains.

Jennifer Corujo
Shaped Editor

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What Are Interim Assessments in Education? 

Discover what interim assessments are, how they differ from formative and summative tests, and how they help educators track student progress, inform instruction, and improve academic outcomes.

Onalee Smith
Shaped Contributor

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How One District Uses Data to Drive Student Success

Learn about how Blue Springs School District in Missouri recognized the urgent need to address learning gaps and reduce the burden of catch-up while providing support and actionable data to inform teaching and better meet students' needs.

Onalee Smith
Shaped Contributor

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How to Overcome 3 Major Roadblocks to Curriculum, Assessment, and Instruction Alignment

Explore the common barriers to curricular alignment and actionable steps leaders can implement to foster coherence, collaboration, and long-term success.

Dr. Suzanne Jimenez
Director of Academic Planning and Data Analytics at HMH

Dr. Bonnie Cochran
Director of Academic Planning and Analytics, HMH

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Collaborative, Data-Driven Success: How a Virginia School District is Focusing on Student Growth

Discover how Loudoun County Public Schools leveraged data-driven strategies, collaboration, and aligned initiatives to focus on student growth for all learners in this case study.

Onalee Smith
Shaped Contributor

Accelerated learning techniques for the classroom

Accelerated Learning Techniques for the Classroom

Need to catch kids up or move them forward? Try these research-backed accelerated learning techniques.

Brenda Iasevoli
Shaped Executive Editor

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What Is Oral Reading Fluency?

This article answers the question, what is oral reading fluency? It provides fluency teaching strategies after defining fluency and explaining why it’s important.

Dr. Amy Endo
Education Research Director, Supplemental & Intervention Language & Literacy

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Beyond Alignment: The Power of Coherence in School Districts

Learn how to design a coherent system of curriculum, instruction, and assessment to create a powerful learning environment for all.

Dr. Bonnie Cochran
Director of Academic Planning and Analytics, HMH

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Which Student Needs Are Going Unmet in Your District?

Even districts with high achievement have students whose learning needs are going unmet. Here's how to ensure you're reaching all learners.

Dr. Suzanne Jimenez
Director of Academic Planning and Data Analytics at HMH

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Math Summative Assessment: Explanation and Examples

Explore summative assessment examples in math, along with a definition of what makes math assessment summative and how it compares to other types of assessment

Richard Blankman
Shaped Executive Editor

What Is Data-Driven Decision-Making in Education? A Closer Look

What Is Data-Driven Decision-Making in Education? A Closer Look

What is data-driven decision-making in education, and why is it so important? Learn how using data to drive instruction within the classroom is the most effective way to increase student achievement and growth.

Ashley Cruz
NWEA Consultant, State Professional Learning & Improvement Services, HMH

9 Common Formative Assessment Examples and Ideas

9 Common Formative Assessment Examples and Ideas

Read more about common formative assessment examples and ideas, both informal and formal assessment methods, and how to implement them in the classroom.

Dr. Michael J. Bolz
Principal Learning Experience Designer, HMH

Teacher and student in classroom talking

What Is Benchmark Assessment?

Benchmark assessments are a key tool to bridge the information gap between what’s going on in the short term within the classroom and end-of-year expectations.

Adam Withycombe
NWEA principal content designer, HMH

AWARDS & ACCOLADES

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Shorty Awards

Audience Honor, 2023, Shaped

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Digiday Content Marketing Awards

Finalist, 2023, Shaped

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People’s Choice Podcast Awards

Finalist, 2021 & 2023, Teachers in America

*The views expressed in our blog are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of HMH.