Members of the school staff, along with parents, can work together to create better classrooms.
Building competence in the classroom was a major discussion point in many states at the beginning of 2011. Some states introduced bills to hold teachers more accountable for the academic outcomes of students. New laws pertaining to merit-based pay, bonuses for academic growth and streamlined educator evaluations were enacted to achieve the goal of greater teacher competency in classrooms. In some cases, parents also received the opportunity to force massive staff changes or to turn failing facilities into charter schools. School administrators, parents and teachers all have a role to play in classroom competency.
Instructions
1. Communicate teacher expectations at a meeting between the teachers, the administrators and the school board before the beginning of a new school year. The state-mandated teacher evaluation system or local competency evaluation process should be reviewed. If parent input is a part of teacher reviews, a meeting should also be scheduled to detail how parental concerns will affect teacher merit-based pay initiatives or the contract renewal process.
2. Schedule at least two teacher evaluation reviews during the school year. One of the reviews should be unannounced so a typical classroom experience can be observed. The principal usually conducts educator evaluations, but a school board member or education professional from outside the district may also be included. Teachers should be able to review the first evaluation so they can make the necessary changes to improve classroom practices.
3. Require teachers who do not meet the minimum competency requirements to complete educational coursework or training in order to retain employment. Learning improve classroom organizational skills, enhance lesson plans and engage students in the material will help teachers establish a proper educational environment.
4. Create a school environment that welcomes a free-flowing exchange of ideas and an open-door policy with school administrators. Teachers should not fear judgment when seeking guidance and asking for help on improve academic progress and create a more organized classroom.
5. Establish a mentoring program where competent teachers can mentor new or struggling teachers on a weekly basis. A parent review or advocacy council can become a part of the school team by voicing their concerns in a non-confrontational environment. When possible problems are averted early, both the students and teachers benefit. Good communication between teachers and parents also aids in reducing disruptive behavior by students and develops a dialogue about classroom objectives and homework assignments.
Tags: between teachers, educator evaluations, improve classroom, parents also, school board