ALERT! Teacher Evaluation & Accountability
Last Tuesday, in his State of the State Address, Governor Paul LePage presented the issue of teacher evaluation and accountability as a priority issue for his administration. He said:
"Teacher effectiveness is critical to student learning. We will soon introduce a series of reforms related to Maine's teacher effectiveness policies. Maine must have the best teachers educating our children."
MEA members should know that the Association is addressing this issue and that our policy recommendations on teacher evaluation and accountability are posted on our website.
We have met with Governor LePage and Commissioner of Education Steve Bowen to outline our position and views. What the administration appears to be interested in is something simple like a check list that will make it easier to remove "bad teachers."
Teaching is a profession that involves many complex factors and MEA does not believe it is reducible to a check sheet.
MEA wants a meaningful, high quality evaluation process that is based upon sound pedagogical criteria and multiple evaluation tools. It is in the best interests of students, programs, and career educators.
We urge you to watch this issue closely and be ready to contact your legislators as needed-this is an important issue for you and your profession.
FMI:
- LePage State of the State Address, January 24, 2012
- Maine Education Chief Calls for Statewide Teacher Evaluation Standards
- MEA Policy Statement on Teacher Evaluation & Accountability
- Find your elected officials
Legislative Action
Locate your state and congressional representatives and share your views through our CyberLobby program.
