What is EdStat? OSSE’s EdStat is a process of shared inquiry used to foster accountability by providing relevant data, using that data to make decisions, and then closely monitoring the impact of those decisions based on agreed-upon performance indicators.
The tenets of EdStat are:
- Accurate and timely intelligence shared by all
- Effective tactics and strategies
- Rapid deployment of resources
- Relentless follow-up and assessment
EdStat isn’t about software or technology. The EdStat team first conducts an “archaeological dig” to thoroughly understand the processes, procedures, resources, and customers of an OSSE function. EdStat and program staffs agree on key indicators and strategies to improve performance. The EdStat team collects and analyzes performance data, then translates the data into information used for decision making. Short-cycle timetables for implementing changes are established. Analysis of follow-up data at bi-weekly EdStat sessions ensures that decisions made and actions taken are effective. It is a process of continuous feedback and improvement.
Behind the Scenes The EdStat team also serves as OSSE internal management consultants to provide support, which may include planning, business process redesign, or project management as necessary to improve performance. In this regard, the EdStat team serves as more than internal “auditors.” They function as a part of the team responsible for implementing change and improving performance.
Stat Process History
In 1994 under Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, New York Police Commissioner William Bratton and Jack Maple, his deputy, pioneered CompStat. This program tracked crime statistics in New York city’s 76 precincts and empowered commanders to allocate resources based on current trends. At biweekly CompStat meetings, commanders were held accountable for results. In 2000, Baltimore Mayor (now Maryland Governor) Martin O’Malley, Maple, and Director of Operations matt Gallager instituted CitiStat, a similar system tracking city-wide operations. CitiStat improved citizen services and saved Baltimore $13 million in its first year. The following year, the Baltimore City Public School System adopted this data-driven decision making tool for its SchoolStat program, becoming the first educational organization in the country to implement the Stat process. In 2007, District of Columbia Mayor Adrian N. Fenty created CapStat, and held his first Stat session less than ten days into his term. Shortly thereafter, State Superintendent of Education for the District of Columbia, Deborah A. Gist, implemented EdStat at OSSE, making it the first application of the “Stat” management model to a State Education Agency.
EdStat Processes
EdStat sessions bean with Higher Education Financial Services, an OSSE program providing tuition assistance to college-bound District residents. Presently, EdStat is supporting the transformation of Special Education and Federal Grants, two critical action areas within OSSE, and is leading the agency-wide strategic planning effort.
Why EdStat?
The primary goal of EdStat is to ensure alignment—the right performance indicators are identified, the right management decisions are made, and the subsequent work propels the agency toward our mission and vision that all District residents receive an excellent education for success in the 21st century.
