Designing and Implementing the Next Generation of Teacher Evaluation Systems: Lessons Learned from Case Studies in Five Illinois Districts. Research Brief

In a very short period during the spring and summer of 2012, researchers at the University of Chicago Consortium on Chicago School Research (CCSR) and the Illinois Education Research Council (IERC) collected data from respondents in five districts across Illinois to examine how school districts in the state approach designing and implementing new teacher evaluation systems. Drawing on research in these districts, which are located in north, central, and southern Illinois, this report describes the challenges experienced across the districts. In addition, the authors present strategies the districts used to address these challenges as they occurred and their reflections on lessons learned: (1) Cultivating Buy-In and Understanding; (2) Using Evaluations for Instructional Improvement; (3) Reducing the Burden on Principals; and (4) Incorporating Student Growth into Teacher Evaluation Systems. For all that has been accomplished by these case study districts, teacher evaluation, in all cases, remains a work in progress. Many in their interview sample described ongoing issues and some complicated problems. The report synthesizes these issues and raises some key questions for districts to consider around three common themes: teacher and principal support, communication, and buy-in; ensuring that ratings are accurate and consistent; and developing high-quality student assessments. Appended are: (1) Matrix of Teacher Evaluation Program Characteristics; and (2) Methodological Notes and Protocols. (Contains 2 tables and 3 endnotes.) [Funding for this paper was provided by the Grand Victoria Foundation.]