Evaluation Timelines

The issue that creates the most anxiety for our members has to be the evaluation process. On one hand we recognize the need for the process to improve the quality of education in our classrooms while on the other hand we wish it would only happen to someone else. It certainly causes stress to have someone in our classrooms judging us. But to take some control of the process we should know how it works. The Collective Bargaining Agreement details the process and procedures in contractual terms but we should explain it in clearer terms to be better educated ourselves. What exactly is going to happen and when?

1. Notification of Employees. With in the first four weeks of school, by September 30th, your administrator should have had a meeting with you and your colleagues that are being evaluated this year. You should have received a copy of the procedures for evaluation and have been informed of the relevant policies. Remember, TALB recommends using the negotiated evaluation form. We are currently working with the district to create a new negotiated form but in the meantime please use the current one.
   
   
2. Setting of Objectives. By October 21st you should have met with your administrator again to discuss what objectives you would like to accomplish this year. Your administrator may add to those objectives. Your evaluation will be based on district, individual school, and your own goals and objectives. An important component to setting your objectives is stating any “constraints” you may experience that could affect your lesson observations. These could include roving, new subject area, lack of materials, training, etc. If you feel there is an issue that could impede your performance, write it down!
   
   
3. Observations. The Collective Bargaining Agreement states there will be “routinely three” formal observations conducted during your evaluation year. There may be fewer and possibly more if your administrator feels the need. These formal observations do not include more frequent “informal” observations that could play a role in your evaluation. After your formal observation your evaluator will need to meet with you within 5 school days to discuss the lesson and will need to get to you a written copy of your evaluation within 10 school days.
   
   
4. Less Than Satisfactory Observation. In the unfortunate circumstance you receive a less-than-satisfactory and you believe it was received unfairly you have the option of requesting a second evaluator. Once requested the district will comprise a group of five administrators in your credential area and you may choose one of them to conduct the next observation in conjunction with your administrator. Also if a deficiency is noted in your observation the contract states you are to be given time and assistance from when it is put in writing to correct the stated deficiency before your next observation.
   
   
5. Final Evaluation. The final evaluation is the form that will go into your personnel file. It will have to be presented to you 30 calendar days before the end of school. For members on the traditional track that date is May 13th and for year-round members the date is June 24th.
   
   

While we are unable to grieve any substance of any evaluation we may grieve any violation of the timelines described above. It is our responsibility to keep track of the timelines to ensure a fair process. If you believe there has been a violation of the evaluation timelines please call the TALB office.