A Complete Guide to K-12 Teacher Evaluation Systems, Frameworks, and Best Practices
Teacher evaluation is a systematic process used by K-12 schools and districts to assess, support, and improve teacher performance and instructional effectiveness. It encompasses formal observations, performance assessments, goal-setting conferences, and professional development planning.
Research consistently shows that teacher quality is the most important in-school factor affecting student achievement. Effective evaluation systems help schools:
Formal and informal visits to assess teaching practices, student engagement, and classroom management. Typically includes pre and post-observation conferences.
Assessment of student learning progress through test scores, Student Learning Objectives (SLOs), or value-added models.
Evaluation of non-instructional duties including collaboration, communication with parents, and professional development participation.
Annual goal-setting conferences and self-reflection activities to promote continuous improvement.
The most widely adopted framework, used in over 20 states. Organizes teaching into 4 domains:
Knowledge of content, students, and pedagogy
Creating a culture for learning
Engaging students in learning
Reflection and professional growth
Focuses on teacher actions that directly impact student achievement. Includes 60 elements across 4 domains with a strong emphasis on instructional strategies.
Many states have developed their own frameworks:
Teachers meet with evaluators to establish professional goals and Student Learning Objectives for the year.
Discussion of lesson plans, objectives, and context for upcoming formal observation.
Full-length classroom observation (typically 30-45 minutes) with detailed documentation.
Check-in on progress toward goals and any needed support or adjustments.
Additional formal or informal observations to assess progress and growth.
Final evaluation conference with overall ratings and recommendations for next year.
Evaluators struggle to complete all required observations and documentation.
Solution: Implement digital evaluation platforms that streamline documentation and scheduling. Use shorter, more frequent walkthroughs to supplement formal observations.
Different evaluators apply rubrics differently, leading to unfair comparisons.
Solution: Provide calibration training for evaluators, use standardized rubrics, and conduct inter-rater reliability checks.
Teachers receive vague or unhelpful feedback that doesn't lead to improvement.
Solution: Train evaluators in effective feedback techniques, provide specific examples, and connect feedback to professional development resources.
Join hundreds of schools using Classroom Walkthroughs to manage evaluations efficiently with our complete evaluation management platform.
Detailed guides for evaluation systems in all 50 states.
Browse State Guides →