Guides

Performance-Based Assessments: The Modern Guide

david.specht@otus.com (David Specht) — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 15:53:47 GMT

Making learning meaningful, measurable, and real

What is performance-based assessment?

Performance-based assessments (PBAs) – a key component of performance-based learning – go beyond bubble sheets and short answers. Instead of asking students to recall information, PBAs ask them to do something with what they’ve learned; design a solution, write a policy memo, compose a piece of music, or analyze a real-world scenario.

The Ultimate Guide to AI in Education

david.specht@otus.com (David Specht) — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 11:43:29 GMT

AI didn’t appear in education overnight. It arrived with excitement, questions, and plenty of headlines.

Professional Learning Communities (PLCs): An Educator's Guide

david.specht@otus.com (David Specht) — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 18:28:27 GMT

What is a PLC, really?
4 reasons PLCs work
How do PLCs improve student outcomes?
What are the characteristics of an effective PLC?
3 steps to get started and sustain a PLC
Key members of a PLC
What is the role of edtech in PLCs?
Real-world examples of PLCs
4 things teachers should know about PLCs
5 things administrators should know about PLCs
FAQ about PLCs
How Otus makes running a PLC easy

A New Framework for High-Impact PLCs: Download Now

david.specht@otus.com (David Specht) — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 19:46:56 GMT

Re-energize your PLCs with strategies that actually drive student growth

When PLCs lose focus, collaboration turns into compliance. This guide helps schools reset with a research-backed framework and practical tools to put it into action.

Everything You Need to Know About Standards-Based Grading (2025)

david.specht@otus.com (David Specht) — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 20:12:03 GMT

Wondering if standards-based grading is right for your school or district?

This guide breaks down what it is, why it matters, and how it works, along with practical tips for implementation. Whether you’re leading districtwide change or piloting a new grading system in a single classroom, you’ll walk away with the clarity and resources you need to move forward.

Download the Growth-Based Grading White Paper | Otus

kendell@otus.com (Kendell Hunter) — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 04:30:00 GMT

Traditional grading shows where students fall short. Growth-based grading shows them how to move forward.

Download the AI Policy Guide: A Complete Framework for K-12 Leaders

kristine.leblanc@otus.com (Kristine LeBlanc) — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 05:30:00 GMT

Prepare your school to navigate the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education with our AI Policy Guide. As AI becomes more integrated into classrooms, school leaders must address both its opportunities and challenges. This guide provides a roadmap for creating practical, secure, and forward-thinking AI policies that empower educators and protect students.

K-12 School Leaders’ Guide to EdTech Product Validations - Download

kristine.leblanc@otus.com (Kristine LeBlanc) — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 05:30:00 GMT

Selecting the right edtech tools is one of the biggest challenges K-12 leaders face today. With countless options available, how can you be sure you’re making the best choice for your district?

Download the Complete MTSS eBook | Otus

kendell@otus.com (Kendell Hunter) — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 06:45:00 GMT

Help your students reach their full potential with our complete MTSS eBook. The Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a proven framework designed to enhance academic and behavioral outcomes for all students. Whether you’re new to MTSS or looking to refine your current practices, this eBook is your ultimate guide.

AI in Education and How School Leaders Can Implement Responsible AI

david.specht@otus.com (David Specht) — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 15:59:34 GMT

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly making its way into K-12 schools and classrooms, offering exciting opportunities to improve education. But as with any powerful tool, it’s important to use AI thoughtfully and responsibly. For school leaders, this means guiding your team in creating an AI strategy that benefits everyone—students, families, teachers, and administrators—while also addressing any concerns about privacy, equity, and ethics.

Below, we’ll share practical ways AI can be used in K-12 education, the benefits it can offer, and how to ensure that AI is used responsibly in your school.

The Benefits of AI and How It Can Support Your School

AI has a lot to offer when it comes to making schools more efficient and classrooms more effective. From personalized learning paths to automating administrative tasks, AI can make a big difference in both teaching and learning. Here’s a look at the key ways AI is already benefiting schools and supporting educators around the globe: