Beyond Screening: Using Diagnostic Assessment Effectively

Moderator: Holly Herriges — Arizona Department of Education
Presenter: Dr. Dale Webster — President, CORE Learning

Schools and districts increasingly rely on assessment data to guide reading instruction, yet many educators struggle with how to move beyond universal screening to identify and address students’ specific instructional needs. In this session, Holly Herriges from the Arizona Department of Education speaks with Dr. Dale Webster about how diagnostic assessment can be used efficiently and meaningfully within a comprehensive literacy system. Drawing on research and practical examples, the conversation explores how screening and diagnostic tools work together, how educators can interpret data to pinpoint skill gaps, and how assessment results can inform targeted instruction. The discussion also highlights ways systems can streamline assessment practices so that data supports instructional decisions without creating unnecessary burden for teachers.

Participants will leave with:

• A clearer understanding of the difference between screening and diagnostic assessment

• Insight into how diagnostic data can identify specific skill needs for students

• Practical guidance on using assessment results to inform targeted reading instruction

• Perspective on how districts and schools can use assessment systems efficiently to support teaching and learning