Understanding New York's APPR
The Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR) is New York's comprehensive teacher evaluation system mandated under Education Law §3012-d. It combines multiple measures of educator effectiveness including observations and student performance.
HEDI scale evaluation
Observations + Growth
Appeals & improvement plans
APPR Evaluation Components
Student Performance (Required)
Measures of student growth
Student Learning Objectives (SLOs)
District-determined goals for student growth
State Growth Measures
Where applicable (Grades 4-8 ELA/Math)
Optional Student Performance
Second measure if collectively bargained
Teacher Observation (Required)
Based on state-approved rubric
Principal/Supervisor Observations
At least one by principal or supervisor
Independent Evaluator
Required second observation by trained evaluator
Optional Peer Observations
If collectively bargained
New York Approved Observation Rubrics
Danielson Framework for Teaching
Most widely used in NY districts
6 components including knowledge, objectives, resources
5 components including culture, management
5 components including engagement, assessment
6 components including reflection, communication
NYSUT Teacher Practice Rubric
Union-developed alternative
Aligned to NY standards
Environment and culture
Student engagement focus
Professional development
Other State-Approved Rubrics:
Research-based model
Streamlined evaluation
Teacher advancement
HEDI Rating Scale
| Rating | Description | Score Range | Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highly Effective (H) | Results substantially exceed standards | 90-100 | Eligible for leadership roles, merit recognition |
| Effective (E) | Meets standards for good teaching | 75-89 | Standard progression, professional development |
| Developing (D) | Performance below standards | 65-74 | Teacher Improvement Plan (TIP) required |
| Ineffective (I) | Substantially below standards | 0-64 | TIP required, possible 3020-a proceedings |
Note: Teachers rated Ineffective on student performance measures cannot receive an overall rating higher than Ineffective, regardless of observation scores.
Observation Requirements
Minimum Requirements
-
Probationary Teachers
At least 3 observations: 2 by principal, 1 by independent
-
Tenured Teachers
At least 2 observations: 1 by principal, 1 by independent
-
Unannounced Visits
At least one must be unannounced
Observation Types
-
Formal Observations
Full lesson, pre/post conferences
-
Walkthroughs
Brief visits, 10-15 minutes
-
Video Review
Optional with teacher consent
APPR Annual Timeline
SLO development, review rubrics
Initial formal observations begin
SLO progress check, additional observations
Complete required observations
HEDI ratings determined, appeals window opens
Legal Requirements & Compliance
Education Law §3012-d
- Annual evaluations required for all teachers
- Multiple measures of effectiveness
- Timely and constructive feedback
- Appeals process must be available
District Responsibilities
- Train all evaluators in chosen rubric
- Ensure inter-rater reliability
- Provide improvement plans when needed
- Report data to NYSED annually
New York APPR Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What changed with the 2015 APPR reforms?
The 2015 reforms under §3012-d gave districts more flexibility in choosing evaluation rubrics and reduced the weight of state tests. Districts can now negotiate many aspects with local unions.
Can observations be conducted virtually?
Yes, particularly since COVID-19, virtual observations are permitted when in-person observations aren't feasible. The same rubrics and standards apply.
What is a Teacher Improvement Plan (TIP)?
A TIP is required for teachers rated Developing or Ineffective. It must include specific areas for improvement, support to be provided, and a timeline for achieving improvement.
How does the appeals process work?
Teachers can appeal their ratings through a process negotiated with the local union. Appeals typically focus on procedural issues rather than substantive disagreements about performance.
Simplify Your New York APPR Process
Streamline your APPR observations while maintaining full compliance with New York state requirements.
3012-d compliant • Danielson-aligned • No credit card required