Tired of “wasting” instructional time testing? Turn your students' writing and reading data into instructional gold! Data-driven instruction is the law in Montana, but putting it into practice to benefit student growth can be challenging! Our session will explore how to appropriately, efficiently, and effectively use student writing and reading performance as data to drive instruction and target student learning needs. Session participants will develop their understanding of the Montana Balanced Assessment Model to connect assessment types (Formative, Interim, and Summative) with sustainable practices for the ELA educator that move student learning forward. Bonus!! This session will also include opportunities to learn about the new, innovative Montana Alternative Student Testing (MAST) through-year assessment pilot.