Department of Evaluation, Research, & Assessment (DERA) Home
Data, Evaluation, Research, & Assessment (DERA)
The Data, Evaluation, Research, & Assessment (DERA) Department uses assessments and data to understand student learning outcomes and ensure each student in KCKPS receives the support they need to succeed.
Beyond coordinating these assessments, DERA serves as a districtwide resource by analyzing and reporting student, program, and personnel data to inform instruction, evaluate initiatives, and meet state and federal reporting requirements.
New for 2026–27
TYCD Assessments
Kansas is re-thinking how students take the state ELA and math assessments. Traditionally, students have taken a single state assessment per subject at the end of the year as part of the Kansas Assessment Program (KAP). Beginning this year (2026–27), KCKPS students will participate in an assessment pilot that uses shorter assessments administered quarterly throughout the school year. The Kansas State Department of Education calls these Through-Year, Curriculum-Directed (TYCD) Assessments. In KCKPS, these assessments are aligned with our curriculum and will also serve as our quarterly district benchmark assessments.
Have a question about TYCD Assessments? Visit our TYCD Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page using the link below:
Our Core Principles
DERA helps Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools work toward its strategic priority of High Expectations for Student Achievement by building and maintaining a culture of data-informed decision-making. This work is guided by four core principles:
- All data is good data
- We're in this together
- Excellence takes effort
- Accountability over excuses
Who We Support
DERA supports KCKPS schools, district departments, educators, and partners by providing accurate, timely data and analysis to inform decisions and improve outcomes.
What We Do
DERA provides the following services in collaboration with schools, departments, and external partners across the district:
- Support state and federal reporting requirements
- Coordinate district, state, and national assessments, from Pre-K through 12th grade
- Evaluate initiatives across departments, from selecting curricular resources to supporting summer learning programs
- Support district compliance with grants and memorandums of understanding by providing required data to external partners