Using Data to Illuminate Education
Vela Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing access to evaluation, analytics and data tracking to education partners to improve student and community outcomes. Established in 2017, Vela Institute accomplishes its mission through applied research, data analytics, and the use of evidence-based practices.
Jennifer Wilson-Kearse
Executive Director
Shawn Bergman
Director of Research
Todd Nolt
Director of Evaluation and Analytics
Matthew Hawkins
Assistant Director of Evaluation & Support Services
Alex Serrano
Director of Platform Development
Nick Woody
Assistant Director of Communications
Performance Insights (Pi) is the most powerful and user-friendly GEAR UP system in the nation. It was designed BY educators FOR educators. With Pi you can easily upload student-level data, track student progress, and define milestones.
Our Impact
Vandalia Schools COVID Learning Report
Vela Institute used projection models based on past data to forecast a student’s testing achievement during the winter of the 2020-2021.
GRCC GEAR UP Evaluation
Vela Institute used a mixed-method evaluation framework to determine the extent to which GRCC GEAR UP increases postsecondary enrollment of cohort students.
ISAC Curriculum Evaluation
Vela Institute conducted an external evaluation to better understand the delivery of ISAC’s Developmental Curriculum and determine its effect on student outcomes.
Thomas University Talent Search
Vela Institute developed an educator survey to assess College Going Culture while tracking students’ postsecondary outcomes.
Evidence Based Practices
Part of Vela’s mission is to promote a culture of evidence-based decision-making. To the left is our seven-step model to improve both critical thinking and evidence quality.
What is a Good Decision?
Good Decisions are informed by professional experience. scientific research, and benchmarking data.
What is EBP?
Evidence-Based Practices (EBP) is Vela’s model for using data and analytics to improve program insights and outcomes.
Why Should I Care?
Many organizational decisions are not based on evidence derived from research. Failing to back up decisions with credible evidence leads to missed opportunities and loss of impact.
Contact Us
Phone
(864) 216-5743
info@velainstitute.org
Location
237 Chestnut Hill Dr. Boone, NC 28607