In this episode of Building a Culture of Collaboration, Lorna and Kurtis are joined by Tom Kaster, former IB math teacher and founder of The Datafied Classroom, to explore how data can be used as a tool for trust instead of judgment. Drawing on nearly 20 years in international and public schools, Tom shares how well-designed data dashboards can remove ego from conversations, shift the focus from individuals to systems, and help teams work together to better support both educators and students.
In this conversation, you’ll learn:
- How to use data to strengthen collaboration instead of creating fear or defensiveness
- Why objective, visual dashboards can improve trust and clarity in team discussions
- How MTSS and Early Warning Indicator dashboards can support shared ownership for student success
- Ways leaders can use data to tap into collective expertise rather than punishment
- How data-informed practices align with the philosophy of Collaborative Response
If your school or district is overwhelmed by data but hungry for meaningful action, this episode will help you rethink how data can become a catalyst for collaboration, clarity, and collective efficacy.
Learn more about Tom Kaster at http://www.datafiedclassroom.com
Released February 24, 2026
Connect with Tom Kaster
Email:
Facebook: The Datafied Classroom
YouTube: @TheDatafiedClassroom
Connect with Kurtis Hewson
X @hewsonk27
X @LornaHewson