This paper provides guidelines for improving the objectivity, quality, and relevance of classroom observations. Suggestions are organized according to the three stages of the observation process--prior, during, and after the observation. Tips for establishing and maintaining a positive climate and for necessary preparations prior to the…

Pay-for-performance measures and reward systems for teachers fail to consider the role of performance appraisal and give too little attention to how changes in performance appraisal and reward systems affect organizational processes, such as interteacher cooperation and teacher-administrator relations. Presented are three strategic considerations…

This article presents a documentation system that principals can use in the teacher evaluation process to help improve a teacher's performance or, if necessary, to present at a hearing to support a recommendation for termination. The documentation involves the use of several types of memoranda: (1) memoranda to the principal's file (for less…

The expert system computer simulation detailed in this report is designed to investigate patterns of valuing in decision-making about dossiers of performance data used in teacher promotion evaluations. The knowledge base for the simulation consists of 111 questions organized into 117 rules. The questions and linked advice were derived from…

Teacher performance areas, criteria for evaluating them, and specific descriptors of behavior satisfying each criterion are supplied in this document. Performance areas and criteria for teacher evaluation were selected by the five school districts participating in the School Improvement Model project. The teacher performance areas selected for…

A step-by-step outline of recommended procedures is presented for a performance based evaluation system for teachers in Missouri. Four general performance areas form the basis for the system: (1) instructional processes; (2) classroom management; (3) interpersonal relationships; and (4) professional responsibilities. Nineteen specific,…

This booklet contains various papers, commissioned by the National Catholic Educational Association, on the hiring, education, and evaluation of Catholic school teachers. The topics discussed include (1) guidelines for hiring teachers, (2) characteristics to look for in teachers, (3) preparation of teacher applications and conducting the…

The document presents Module 1, characteristics of the gifted/talented student, of the Star Power modules, developed for school personnel who have an interest in or a need to explore the area of gifted and talented education. It is explained in an introductory section that the modules can be used for independent study, for small group interaction,…

The document presents Module 5, enrichment activities for the gifted/talented, of the Star Power modules developed for school personnel who have an interest in or a need to explore the area of gifted and talented education. It is explained in an introductory section that the modules can be used for independent study, for small group interaction,…

The document presents Module 9, programs for the gifted/talented, of the Star Power modules developed for school personnel who have an interest in or a need to explore the area of gifted and talented education. It is explained in an introductory section that the modules can be used for independent study, for small group interaction, or for a large…

Discusses five methods of teacher evaluation used by progressive districts: (1) evaluation is linked to research on effective teaching; (2) evaluators receive improved training; (3) administrators are accountable for conducting evaluations; (4) evaluation-identified teacher deficiencies are used to focus staff development; and (5) teachers…

Educational reform could be stunted if questionable staffing practices (emergency certificates, misassignment of teachers, and alternative routes to certification) continue and become more prevalent due to the predicted teacher shortages. Outlines the National Education Association's six-point program and the American Federation of Teacher's…

An open letter from the school board to teachers in the Gouverneur (New York) Central School District outlines what is expected of them in the areas of role in the school and the community, preparation, and job attitude. An outline of the letter is included to help other boards prepare a similar document. (MLF)

Discussed is the use of student perception instruments in the evaluation of teachers and teaching. The development and testing of an instrument is presented. An example of feedback to science student teachers from this instrument is given. (CW)

Addresses the current status of the law regarding collective bargaining and teacher summative evaluations, and the labor relations implications from a management perspective. (MLF)