09/10/12State Education Report Calls for Sweeping Reforms in Teacher Evaluation
Contra Costa Times (CA) (09/10/12) Puente, KelleyOn Sept. 10, the California Department of Education released a 90-page report from the Task Force on Educator Excellence, established by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson earlier this year, that offers recommendations that could change education policy at the school district and state levels. Torlakson says it is the most comprehensive report on the teaching profession in over 10 years. To create a diverse and high-quality workforce of teachers and principals, the report recommends that incentives be offered for experienced teachers to work in high-need schools; the accreditation process be streamlined and strengthened; and an effective teacher evaluation system be created that focuses on teacher practice, student learning, and professional contributions and offers feedback that promotes professional development and teacher collaboration. According to Torlakson, "We are blessed to have many outstanding educators already in our classrooms. And every child deserves a great teacher, one who cares for children today and helps prepare them to contribute to the society and economy of the 21st century." To read the report, "Greatness by Design: Supporting Outstanding Teaching to Sustain a Golden State," click
here.
