Lessons for K-9 administrators from high school administrators: a case study on data-Driven decision-making in New Mexico ’ s multi-layered system of supports

New Mexico’s Multi-Layered System of Supports is a comprehensive framework designed to provide all students, from K-12 as a result of Martinez and Yazzie lawsuit. Thus, this study explores the experiences of high school administrators with the implications for K-9 school administrators in applying data-driven decision-making (DDDM). A qualitative case study approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with seven school administrators in Northwest New Mexico. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes related to DDDM practices. The findings revealed that school administrators’ perceptions of the role of DDDM processes include the impact on student outcomes, transforming data into actionable insights, lack of professional development and education equity factors. Furthermore, school administrators’ management practices for DDDM include utilising technology, fostering data-driven culture, goal setting and monitoring, collaborative data analysis, feedback, and reflection. The study was limited to a single context, which may limit the generalisability of the findings.