Since spring
2017, the district and union have met nine times to collaboratively discuss the
evaluation process in the Evaluation Committee: 5/16/17, 5/26/17, 7/12/17,
7/18/17, 7/24/17, 1/17/18, 2/21/18, 2/22/18, and 5/23/18. During these
meetings, input was gathered from the Classroom Teachers Association on all
aspects of the evaluation model, including streamlining elements, the
evaluation process, and student learning growth calculations. The input
gathered was used to support the initial and further streamlining of the
evaluation model.
It was made clear to CTA almost one year ago, during the
collaborative bargaining meeting on 6/21/17, that consistent with state
law, no bargaining of the evaluation tool would take place. However, input
and perspectives on how to improve the model were appreciated. Nevertheless, a
different model similar to Polk County (a more rural district that we
outperform) was proposed by CTA at the collaborative bargaining meeting on
5/18/2018.
The OCPS
Instructional Framework is based on the contemporary, validated research of the
Marzano Focused Evaluation Model, designating strategies to produce student
success. The refinements address concerns discussed such as the need for a
simpler tool, concerns with the labels of the developmental scales, and
eliminating the 100% of students demonstrating the desired effect for the
highest level of the developmental scale.
The District is
committed to supporting Article X, Section J of the Contract between the School
Board and CTA. We look forward to collaboratively bargaining the impact of the
streamlined evaluation and exploring how to enhance the process for teachers
and administrators. In the meantime, we will continue with our present system
next year so that teachers can become familiar with the condensed version. Many
teachers have already expressed positive feedback for the simpler model, but
the delay will help clear up any confusion.