About

2008 Phoenix Institute Corps Members and Staff,

We are extremely excited to welcome all 2008 Teach For America corps members to a wonderful Phoenix Institute experience, and even more excited to introduce you to the wonderful world of data.

We are Lewis Leiboh and Olin Parker, and we’re responsible for that world of data at the Phoenix Institute. Here at the “Department of Data” (we made up a department name to make us seem extremely official), our job is to analyze information from staff and Corps Members and help everyone turn that data into action that furthers student achievement. Whether it is helping you track your students’ progress in the classroom, or giving you more time to work on lesson plans by cutting down your wait time in the dining hall, everything we do revolves around those bright minds you will encounter in just one more week.

Do not be alarmed..

We are not data-nerds who live behind our computers and develop crazy Excel spreadsheets that chart out which pocket protector we’re going to wear every day for the next three months. Rather, we are two approachable guys who remember quite clearly what institute is like and want to help you become better teachers.

Our work this summer will mostly be behind the scenes, so we thought we’d share by blogging on topics such as using data in your classroom to improve your teaching, nifty Excel tips, and even some info (coming soon) on why you should get some sleep at Institute. Our posts, of course, are our own thoughts and opinions — not official ones of Teach For America — and we hope you’ll join us for an adventure in Phoenix!

Yours in Data,
Lewis and Olin