Disconnecting the Ties Between Teacher Evaluations and Test Scores
In Indiana, educators and legislators have been caught up in the ongoing debate as to whether teacher evaluations and, as a result, teacher pay should be linked to students’ test scores. Considered one of the most controversial aspects of the state’s educational policy, that link seems likely to be headed for the trash heap of abandoned educational reforms.
According to a recent article in the Indianapolis Star, a panel is poised to recommend that the state take student’s ISTEP scores out of the equation when determining the outcome of teacher evaluations. Proponents of the measure say it could cut down on the stress experienced by teachers in performing their responsibilities as teachers.
“We’re taking adult stress and putting it on kids because the adults are stressed out,” said Nicole Fama, a principal and chairman of the panel.