Touchstone denotes the idea of a benchmark or relative standard against which something is measured or compared. It is a basis for comparison - a reference point against which other things can be evaluated. The purpose of this website is to do just that: help school leaders understand student achievement using touchstones.

The absolute goal for achievement in Washington State is that ALL students meet or exceed standard. Therefore, the goal is that 100% will pass the WASL. On the way to that goal, however, it may be helpful for school and district leaders to have a clear understanding of their achievement compared to a relative standard in addition to the absolute standard.

The TCP provides a clear visual representation of student achievement compared to other schools and/or districts. By viewing their own relative scores, school leaders may be able to use this information as part of broader efforts to prompt action leading to stronger student achievement. In addition, the site helps identify other schools and districts that may have higher levels of student achievement.

By knowing the names of the other schools and/or districts, leaders will be able to connect to others and may be able to learn from each other’s promising practices. We hope this site provides insight into the work of educators across the state. We hope it helps provide a clear visual representation of student performance, and we hope it helps connect schools to each other.