Use of Data in Teacher Evaluations

How to Use Data in Teacher Evaluations:

In the 2014 PDK/GALLUP poll, participants were asked, “In your opinion, how important is each of the following reasons for evaluating a teacher’s performance in the classroom — very important, somewhat important, not very important, not at all important? How about”

“Helping teachers improve their ability to teach” (pg 51). Nation wide, 77% said very important and 21% said somewhat important; Parents of school kids, 82% said very important & 16% said somewhat important; Republicans, 71% & 27%; Democrats, 86% & 13%; Independents, 78% & 21%. Almost no one said “not very important” or “not at all important”.

The unanimity of these responses, particularly 71% of Republicans, makes one wonder why there’s not a charge to incorporate this into education reform. Could it have something to do with the fact that this is what the teachers’ unions have been saying for more than a decade?

Ken Mortland

Member – Mainstream Republicans of Washington Board

Vice President - WEA-Retired

Charter Member - NEA Republican Leaders Conference