No Teacher Left Behind: Value-Added Evaluations Impact All Teachers

• In Event: Methodological Issues in Teacher Evaluation Policy

Abstract

No Child Left Behind and Race to the Top require states to measure the value a teacher adds to, or detracts from, student learning using student achievement data. Accordingly, many states struggling to develop the value-added models requisitioned are turning to off-the-shelf models such as the SAS Education Value-Added Assessment System (EVAAS). However, they do this before fully realizing whether such systems render their intended deliverables, and whether unintended (and often undesirable) consequences accompany the model. Researchers examined the intended and unintended consequences of the EVAAS, studying the realities of EVAAS from the experiences of those most impacted by the model – the teachers. Findings indicate EVAAS impacts teachers of all grade-levels and subjects in one of the nation’s largest districts.

Authors

• Clarin Collins, Arizona State University

• Jessica Holloway, Kansas State University