Leslie Rutkowski is a globally recognized leader in educational assessment and evaluation, specializing in helping schools, districts, and policymakers make better use of data to support student success. With a career spanning over two decades, she has worked with international organizations, state education agencies, and local school districts to design and implement fair, meaningful, and actionable assessment systems.

As a Professor of Quantitative Research Methodology at Indiana University, Leslie focuses on helping educators navigate the complexities of assessment and accountability, ensuring that data serves schools, not the other way around. Her research and advisory work have shaped state, national, and international education policies, improving how learning is measured across diverse contexts.

Bringing Data into Focus for Schools and Educators

In education today, data is everywhere—but too often, it’s not used in ways that truly help students or teachers. Leslie is committed to ensuring that assessments and evaluations:

• Support teachers as professionals – Data should enhance, not replace, educators' expert judgment.

• Measure what matters – Assessments should capture real learning and progress, not just compliance with testing mandates.

• Help schools make informed decisions – Evaluations should be practical, fair, and actionable, guiding improvement rather than assigning blame.

From International Policy to Classroom Impact

Leslie’s work is rooted in both research and practice, having advised organizations such as the U.S. Department of Education, UNESCO, the OECD, and the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA). She has led studies and technical advisory groups focused on:

• Large-Scale & District Assessments – Ensuring that assessments are valid, reliable, and useful for schools and educators.

• Evaluation & Research-Based Decision Making – Conducting independent, data-driven evaluations of programs and policies to improve student learning outcomes.

• Education Accountability – Advising policymakers on creating fair and meaningful assessment systems that truly support schools and students.

Leslie has worked with schools and districts to refine their assessment strategies, improve student growth models, and ensure that evaluation results lead to actionable change.

Rethinking Accountability: Let Teachers Teach

Too often, assessment and accountability policies create unnecessary barriers for educators. Leslie believes in a smarter approach—one that respects teachers' expertise, provides useful insights for schools, and ensures students get the support they need.

Her work at R2Evaluation helps districts cut through the noise of excessive testing and ineffective accountability models, replacing them with practical, research-backed approaches that truly help students and teachers succeed.

Partner with Leslie & R2Evaluation

If your district or school is looking to improve its assessment practices, refine student growth models, or conduct a meaningful program evaluation, Leslie Rutkowski and R2Evaluation are ready to help.

Because when we use data wisely, schools thrive.