Date of Award
Spring 6-13-2025
Document Type
Dissertation in Practice
Degree Name
Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
Organizational Unit
Morgridge College of Education, Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
First Advisor
Erin Anderson
Second Advisor
Lolita Tabron
Third Advisor
Starla Sieveke-Pearson
Copyright Statement / License for Reuse
All Rights Reserved.
Keywords
Asset-based data, Early Warning System (EWS), Equitable education, Ninth-grade transition, Street data, Charter school
Abstract
I explored the design and implementation of an asset-based Early Warning System (EWS) to support ninth-grade students at The Academy, a PK-12 charter school, during their critical high school transition. Using Practical Action Research, I addressed the question: How might a comprehensive EWS leverage student assets and systemic support to ensure success? Over one academic year, the study unfolded in two phases: Phase I employed qualitative methods—interviews, focus groups, and data reviews—to identify gaps, while Phase II developed an enhanced EWS, integrating map and street data for richer student profiles and staff collaboration. Findings underscore a human-powered EWS rooted in relationships, emphasizing holistic, asset-based data that captures cultural wealth, social-emotional needs, and strengths beyond traditional metrics. Incorporating street data—narratives and relational insights—enabled proactive, equity-focused interventions, countering deficit-based approaches. This shift highlights staff as the core support system, moving beyond technology-driven models. I recommend schools adopt asset-based frameworks, prioritize student voice, and address systemic barriers with culturally responsive practices to foster equitable outcomes. This research offers a model for personalized, strengths-based support, enhancing ninth-grade transitions and long-term success.
Copyright Date
6-2025
Publication Statement
Copyright is held by the author. User is responsible for all copyright compliance.
Rights Holder
Stephanie Mann
Provenance
Received from ProQuest
File Format
application/pdf
Language
English (eng)
Extent
151 pgs
File Size
1.2 MB
Recommended Citation
Mann, Stephanie, "From Deficit to Asset: Developing an Equitable Early Warning System for Ninth Grade Success" (2025). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2586.
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/etd/2586
Included in
Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons, Educational Leadership Commons, Secondary Education Commons