Improving Education Today: The Deep Dive

Angela and Davey discuss what should happen after teachers earn tenure. . . so that they continue to improve and maintain their instructional effectiveness. The discussion is based on Dr. Howie Knoff's blogs advocating a new approach to teacher evaluation and professional development. . . shifting from a model that focuses largely on "time-in-rank" to a performance- and outcomes-based model emphasizing continuous growth and improvement.  The core of today's discussion is the use of Professional Development Plans (PDP) that teachers create and administrators approve, and that outline specific, measurable goals in research, instruction, and community service. Differentiated by the number of years of teaching experience, the PDP guides teachers' development, potentially leading to increased post-tenure responsibilities like coaching or specialization.  Regular reviews of the PDP ensure accountability and ongoing progress, while also aligning individual teacher goals with school-wide initiatives. The system also includes a structured process for continuing advanced teachers' tenure appointments and salary increases. . . based on their PDP success and contributions.