MarylandTransforms-StrategicPlanGuidebook - Flipbook - Page 39
MARYLAND TRANSFORMS - STRATEGIC PLAN 39
EARLY WARNING INDICATORS & SYSTEMS6
Early Warning Systems (EWS) represent a collaborative approach
among educators, administrators, parents, and communities by using
data effectively to keep students on the pathway to graduation. EWS
use indicators to identify students who may be at risk academically
or socially and create response systems to ensure students receive
timely and appropriate support by providing the right intervention for
the right student at the right time.
The development of predictive early warning indicators has occurred
rapidly over the past decade. In the early 2000s, researchers set out
to identify the most highly predictive factors of dropping out.
They identified three key indicators (the ABCs) that were better
predictors of student outcomes than demographics or test scores. By
closely monitoring attendance patterns, behavior issues, and course
performance, educators and administrators can proactively intervene
and provide targeted support to students who may be struggling.
The best EWS are characterized by a combination of features, such as:
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rapid identification of students who are in trouble;
rapid interventions that are targeted to students’ immediate
and longer-term need for support, redirection and greater
success;
the frequent monitoring of the success of interventions;
a rapid modification of interventions that are not working;
and shared learning from outcomes.
Early Warning Systems, when coupled with the ABCs framework,
contribute to creating a supportive and responsive learning
environment for middle school students.
THE ABC’S OF MIDDLE SCHOOL7
Research shows that students at risk of
dropping out can be identified as early
as sixth grade. In fact, sixth graders who
display just one of the following off-track
indicators have only a 10% – 20% chance
of graduating on time.
ATTENDANCE
BEHAVIOR
COURSES
An attendance rate of
less than 80%
One or more out-ofschool suspensions for
behavior
Failing grade in
mathematics or English
language arts course
Balfanz, R., Bruce, M., Bridgeland, J. M., & Fox, J. H. (November 2011). On Track for Success: The Use of Early Warning
Indicator and Intervention Systems to Build a Grad Nation. Civic Enterprises & Johns Hopkins University.
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Balfanz, R. (June 2009). Putting Middle Grades Students on the Graduation Path. National Middle School Association.
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