Two more states approved evaluation systems for educators that rely partially on student-achievement data.
New York officials and representatives from the New York State United Teachers announced last week they had resolved a dispute over how to use test scores in evaluating educators. The dispute had imperiled millions of federal dollars from the state’s $700 million Race to the Top award.
Under the agreement, the two sides say that 40 percent of a teacher’s evaluation will be based on student achievement, with 20 percent from state testing and 20 percent from a list of three testing options. Those options include state tests, third-party assessments or tests approved by the state department of education, and locally developed tests that also will be subject to state review and approval.
The remaining 60 percent will be based on rigorous and nationally recognized measures of performance—such as classroom observations, student and parent feedback, and student portfolios.
In Connecticut, a new system adopted last week by the state board of education will tie 45 percent of educators’ performance to student achievement, including test data. Observations of performance, as well as feedback from peers, parents, and students will also figure into the evaluations for teachers and principals.
