Data on a Mission: How Doulos Uses Student Data to Drive Excellence
By Michael Buehler
Teacher and Learning Coordinator
(3 Minute Read)
At Doulos Discovery School, our mission is clear: educating and equipping servant leaders through Christian discipleship and expeditionary learning to impact the Dominican Republic. But how do we know we’re living that out effectively?
The answer is simple: data.
We don’t just hope we’re on the right path—we measure it. By gathering and analyzing data, we gain the insight needed to make informed decisions that help our students grow both academically and spiritually.
How We Use Data at Doulos Discovery School
Our academic team collects and reviews data from a wide variety of sources:
Student, parent, and staff surveys
Interviews and feedback sessions
Teacher and student observations
Norms-based standardized testing
Student work, presentations, and performance assessments
This information helps us identify strengths, address challenges, and refine how we deliver Christ-centered education.
A Closer Look: Improving Math Instruction Through Data
One recent example of data-driven change is in our approach to math instruction.
After reviewing post-COVID testing results, we noticed inconsistencies in math skill growth across several grade levels. Our students were progressing more slowly than peers in other private Christian schools worldwide.
Rather than accept the trend, we responded with a plan.
Step 1: Diagnose the Issue
The academic leadership team examined multiple causes, from curriculum limitations to inconsistent access to manipulatives and professional training.
Step 2: Build a Solution
During the 2022–2023 school year, we:
Selected a new, high-quality K–11 math curriculum
Invested in manipulatives for hands-on engagement
Developed a strategy for teacher training and coaching
Step 3: Implement the Plan
In 2023–2024, the new curriculum launched across all grade levels. Teachers adapted with resilience, and our coaching system supported consistent execution.
The result? All 10 assessed grades showed stronger growth than previous years. Compared to global benchmarks among Christian schools, our growth was 1.5 times higher than average.
Celebrating Progress, Pressing Forward
We’re thrilled by the improvement—but we’re not finished.
Our academic team continues to:
Monitor math progress across grades
Identify new opportunities for school-wide and individualized growth
Launch initiatives that blend academic rigor with spiritual formation
At Doulos, we believe education is a tool in God’s hands. We are committed to modeling His ongoing work of shaping and refining us as we help our students reach their full potential in Christ.