Data Strategy and Reliability Analyst - Data and Accountability

The Data Strategy and Reliability Analyst provides expert guidance to district and school leadership for enhancing outcomes through sophisticated data analysis. The Analyst will play a crucial role in aligning school and program plans with the district’s strategic goals, identifying areas for improvement, and fostering innovation to enhance overall school performance. The position requires a strong technological background, proficiency in PowerBI, and a commitment to ensuring data accuracy and reliability to support informed decision-making. Reporting to the Director of Data and Accountability, this position collaborates with other Data and Accountability positions, school and department leadership, as well as external agencies to ensure high-quality, secure, and efficient data practices across the district., Data Reliability

• Identify opportunities to optimize the use of various information systems and liaise with department leadership to stay informed on updates and explore potential improvements.
• Maintain department procedures and policies in alignment with district, state and federal statutes and regulations.
• Write, modify, and utilize custom SQL queries to extract, audit, and manipulate data from various sources.
• Ensure data accuracy through regular auditing, data quality issue analysis, and resolution recommendations.
• Develops and implements streamlined processes to enhance efficiency, reduce redundancy, and improve service delivery.
• Integrates relevant technological tools and advancements to support staff and improve outcomes.

Data Analytics

• Design and build consistent, accurate and available data solutions in specialized software (e.g., PowerBI, Excel, Google, QGIS, etc.).
• Ensure data visualizations provide common data elements and structures as well as adhere to best visualization practices for application and use.
• Prepare various reports for professional, technical, and non-technical audiences to provide and/or convey information.
• Combine data files from multiple sources (e.g., student records, surveys, federal, state and local governmental agencies, etc.) for use in analysis.
• Analyze student data, assessment scores, and research to provide information, produce reports and visualizations to support data-informed decisions.

Data Systems

• Maintain standard operating procedure documentation to ensure data consistency, quality, and transparency across the district.
• Respond to in-district and out-of-district inquiries for data requests.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

Collaboration and Capacity Building

• Collaborate with regional positions to build capacity among school and district staff to understand and interpret data.
• Stay informed on federal and state laws and best practices relevant to the assigned area through ongoing research.
• Support regional positions and school teams in using data to set goals, drive improvement cycles, and monitor outcomes.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and data-informed practice across all levels of the organization.
• Participate in cross-functional data projects and regional strategic planning efforts.
• Identify opportunities to optimize the use of various information systems and liaise with department leadership to stay informed on updates and explore potential improvements.
• Leads or participates in special projects and assignments as directed by district leadership.
• Maintains positive and professional relationships with stakeholders, emphasizing high-quality customer service.
• Applies change management strategies to lead and sustain department or district initiatives.
• Initiates, plans, and manages innovative programs or events that align with district and departmental goals.
• Monitors and ensures timely completion of projects and initiatives.
• Demonstrates accountability for student-centered outcomes and alignment with the goals of Mesa Public Schools.
• Collaborates with administrators and staff to identify and implement improvements in data centralization and capacity building effectiveness.
• Facilitates development and alignment of the department’s vision and mission with district strategic priorities., Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
• Primarily office-based with frequent district site visits.
• Occasional evening or weekend commitments.
• Fast-paced, high-responsibility work environment requiring adaptability and responsiveness.
• Potential exposure to moderate noise levels typical of office environments.
• Ability to sit for extended periods, use a computer, and operate office equipment.
• Frequent use of hands for typing and handling documents.
• Occasional standing, walking, bending, and reaching.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 10 pounds regularly and up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Visual acuity for reading and computer work.

1% of the base salary granted for each year of verified relevant experience (within ten years) beyond the requirement, up to a ten-year maximum, * Bachelor’s degree in education, data analytics, statistics, education policy, social science, or a related field.

• Evidence of data manipulation and visualization in a professional setting., * Master’s degree or higher in education, data analytics, information systems, statistics, or a related field
• 3 years of experience in K-12 educational data and analytics
• Experience with Student Information Systems (SIS), state/federal education reporting, and assessment data
• Experience in translating complex data into actionable insights for educators and administrators

Skills & Competencies:

• Experience working with student information systems (SIS), assessment platforms and/or data warehouses
• Experience with data analytics, data wrangling and/or data blending/integration tools (e.g., SQL, Python)
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Excel, Google Sheets, Google Looker Studio)
• Knowledge of state and federal education accountability systems, metrics, and reporting (e.g., ADEConnect, AzEDS, and statewide longitudinal data systems)
• Demonstrated skill and knowledge of computer applications in the use of research and analysis (e.g., Excel, R, QGIS, Qualtrics, SPSS, Stata, etc.)
• Expertise in research design, survey methodology, data analysis, demography, and interpretation.
• Knowledge of documentation and compliance associated with IRB protocols and FERPA regulations
• Knowledge of assessment practices and platforms and the use of assessment data in monitoring learning and program effectiveness (e.g., Pearson, ACT, College Board, MSAA, AZELLA, TSA, etc.)
• Ability to design and deliver professional learning to various stakeholders to build data literacy and capacity
• Eagerness to learn and develop skills with a growth mindset
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, especially in translating complex data into clear and actionable insights that drive data-informed decisions and continuous improvement to technical and non-technical audiences
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects while ensuring accuracy, compliance, confidentiality, and deadlines are met
• Effective collaboration and communication skills, including the ability to foster positive relationships and work collaboratively with teachers, administrators and other stakeholders
• Technologically fluent with Microsoft, Google, and related platforms to support data-informed decision-making
• Exemplifies the Portrait of a Graduate by modeling the essential skills and attitudes expected of Mesa Public Schools employees
• Demonstrates commitment to the MPS Promise that every student is known by name, served by strength and need, and graduates ready for college, career and community.
• Knowing relevant local, state, and federal laws, policies, and compliance requirements.
• Understanding organizational development and strategic planning principles.
• Demonstrating a high level of professionalism, integrity, and discretion.
• Applying change management frameworks and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Using data to inform decision-making and drive performance outcomes.
• Leading collaborative processes with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Fostering a people-centered and service-oriented culture focused on supporting successful student outcomes.
• Demonstrating adaptability and openness to innovation and change.