In the previous post about unannounced observations, we looked at the objective of these shorter classroom visits. In this post, we'll look at some of the logistics of the unannounced observation so that staff members have a better idea of how this new process will work. Here are some basics about unannounced observations:
- Teachers with Professional Teaching Status (PTS) on Self-Directed Plans (which is all PTS staff at this stage) will be visited once during their two-year cycle. They may be observed one additional time if they request it or if it is requested by the evaluator.
- Teachers without PTS (which is teachers in their first three years)are on a Developing Educator Plan will be visited four times each school year.
- Contract language on unannounced observations - "It is recommended that each observation last at least 7 to 10 minutes. The Evaluator is not required nor expected to review all of the indicators in a rubric during an observation. However, the intent of the time is to ensure that every effort will be made to assess for a sufficient period of time as many indicators as possible. The duration of each observation shall be sufficient to provide meaningful feedback on selected indicators and elements of the teacher rubric.
During the unannounced visits, evaluators will be using a form that contains the top six elements of the Burlington Great Eight (Subject Matter Knowledge, Rigorous Standards-Based Unit Design, Well-Structured Lessons, Adjustment to Practice, Student Engagement, Student Motivation). This form is an adaptation of this form created by the Massachusetts Teachers' Association.
Following the unannounced observation, the observer will determine the appropriate evidence rating (see ratings below) on each of the elements and the educator's student learning goal and then complete an electronic version of the form that will be shared with the educator. The evaluator will also highlight one strength and one area of possible improvement from the observation.
Clear Evidence (E): During the observation, I saw clear evidence of the educator’s proficiency on the indicator. The guide should be the Proficient definition on the rubric.
Partial Evidence (P): During the observation, I saw partial evidence of the educator’s proficiency on the indicator. The guide should be the Proficient and Needs Improvement definitions on the rubric.
Contradictory Evidence (C): During the observation, I saw evidence that the educator clearly lacked proficiency on the indicator. The guide should be the Proficient and Unsatisfactory definitions on the rubric.
Not Applicable (N): During the observation, the educator’s practice did not include elements defined in the indicator. This is not a negative rating, but rather an acknowledgement that the indicator was not addressed.