Which of the following is a step in the data cycle?

Looking at baseline data is a crucial step in the data cycle because it provides a reference point against which progress can be measured. Baseline data helps educators and administrators understand the starting conditions before implementing any initiatives or changes. By analyzing baseline data, stakeholders can identify specific areas that require improvement, establish measurable goals, and track changes over time. This step ensures that decisions are informed by concrete evidence, enabling a more systematic and results-oriented approach to enhancing educational outcomes.

The other options, while they may represent important activities within an educational setting, do not directly relate to the systematic process of analyzing and utilizing data for decision-making as outlined in the data cycle. Identifying faculty members and deciding on school themes may be essential for operational and strategic planning but do not specifically pertain to the analysis and application of data. Similarly, creating marketing strategies is generally focused on promoting the school rather than incorporating data analysis into decision-making processes.