Updated August 2026
Data is at the root of every Excel by Eight (E8) Community planning process. Public input from parents, educators, health professionals, and other residents is a key component that guides the work of our local steering committees. We rely on this input to flag potential areas of concern so we can set comprehensive strategies for improving child outcomes.
How do E8 Communities gather this vital feedback? We use community outreach, such as data walks. Jessi Rice Woods, community impact director, explains more.
First, what is a data walk?
Data points are extremely helpful, but they don’t tell the whole story. That’s why we look at them in context with public input. As the name suggests, data walks are gallery-style presentations of statistics related to boxes on the E8 resource grid. We present initial data to participants and ask them to react. This helps us better understand where children are excelling and where we may need to shore up local resources.
What type of information does the steering committee gather at these events?
Once we present initial data, including from the Early Development Instrument, participants tell us about their experiences related to those issues. This may include identifying existing resources, community-based solutions, or even a lack thereof. Perhaps most importantly, we hear what they are concerned or surprised about and what areas of the E8 resource grid they consider the most important.
How does this type of community engagement aid the overall E8 planning process?
The information helps us determine where we can make the most impact locally. Participants’ responses are coded, entered into a database, and then sorted to identify areas of interest and quantify anecdotal feedback. Our E8 steering committees then analyze the results, work to identify root causes, set priorities, and develop targeted goals.
What should residents in E8 Communities do if they can’t attend a data walk but want to offer their input?
We recommend individuals who live or work in E8 communities reach out to their designated community impact strategist for one-on-one discussions. Get in touch at excelby8.net/contact.
