5 Ways to Use Data for Academic Recovery Under ALL In VA

Chronic absenteeism is one of the biggest barriers to learning recovery in Virginia today.

In 2023-2024, the state’s chronic absenteeism rate dropped to 16.1%, a major improvement over the previous year’s 19.3%. 

But there is still work to be done. 

According to the VDOE, students who are chronically absent perform 19 percentage points lower in reading and 26 points lower in math than their peers.

That’s why the Commonwealth launched the ALL In VA initiative. With a focus on attendance, literacy, and learning, this multi-year plan helps schools confront post-pandemic learning loss with targeted supports. 

One of the most powerful tools schools can use to make the most of this opportunity? 

Data. 

Below are five data-driven strategies schools across Virginia can use to support academic recovery through ALL In VA.

1. Identify Trends in Attendance Early

Data can help educators spot chronic absenteeism patterns before they become long-term problems. Look at trends by grade level, subgroup, or time of year to anticipate which students may need support.

• Form a dedicated attendance team to review data weekly.
• Monitor dips following holidays, during weather disruptions, or after assessment periods.
• Track attendance by subgroup (such as English learners or students with disabilities) to ensure equity.

2. Set Clear, Measurable Goals for Recovery

All In VA encourages schools to use data to set targeted goals and measure the impact of supports like tutoring and extended learning time. Without benchmarks, it’s difficult to know if interventions are working. 

• Create SMART goals for growth in reading and math based on your Standards of Learning (SOL) data.
• Set participation goals for tutoring, after-school programs, or family engagement initiatives. 
• Review progress monthly and adjust as needed.

3. Build Targeted Intervention Plans

When data shows a student is falling behind, schools need a clear, consistent way to respond. Academic recovery depends on being able to match students to the right supports, and quickly. 

• Use formative and benchmark data to identify students in need of intervention.
• Design interventions tailored to the student’s academic needs and attendance patterns.
• Include wraparound supports like mentoring, mental health services, or flexible scheduling.

4. Keep Families Engaged and Informed

ALL In VA emphasizes the importance of strong family partnerships in reducing chronic absenteeism. But keeping families engaged requires consistent communication grounded in data they understand. 

• Share student progress updates with families regularly.
• Use data to show the impact of attendance on achievement.
• Work with families to remove barriers to attendance and engagement.

5. Celebrate Growth and Instructional Wins

Recovery can take time, so it’s important to recognize progress along the way. Highlighting both student and staff wins helps build momentum and morale.

• Track incremental gains in student proficiency or attendance.
• Share stories of student success and educator impact.
• Celebrate as a school community to reinforce your goals.

Moving Forward with ALL In VA

As the state continues to invest in solutions for attendance, literacy, and learning recovery, school leaders have a real opportunity to accelerate student progress. By using data to inform every step—from identifying challenges to celebrating success—Virginia educators can build a more equitable and effective path forward.

Otus is here to support that work every step of the way. Click below to learn how Otus helps Virginia schools turn data into impact.