Evaluating Principals: An Analysis of Current State Strategies

• In Event: Poster Session 11
  In Poster Session: Teacher and Adminsitrator Evaluation Reforms

Abstract

This study examines the adoption of specific components of principal evaluation systems across 50 states and Washington, DC. The authors conclude the majority of states have adopted some form of principal evaluation system, most of which include a multiple measure system with some assessment of student test scores. None of the states have adopted statistical methods that level the playing field across schools or accurately assess principal effectiveness. Finally, the authors discover that states using the results of the evaluation systems to make personnel decisions are very likely to employ the most simplistic methods for assessing student growth. The authors argue such decisions will only exacerbate the issues of inexperienced principals and principal turnover at low-performing schools.

Authors

• Jing Liu, The Pennsylvania State University

• Ed Fuller, The Pennsylvania State University