Principal Evaluation in Indiana: Practitioners' Perceptions of a New Statewide Model

• In Event: Unique Principal Preparation Models and Lessons Learned

Abstract

Effective school principals are needed to lead efforts towards quality educational opportunities for all students. Evaluation practices that foster principal effectiveness can improve professional practices. In Indiana, approximately 80% of public school districts recently implemented an innovative state-developed principal evaluation model, after legislation was passed mandating specific components including value-added measures. This study examines the new reform model in terms of district-level practitioners’ views of effectiveness and implementation fidelity. Surveys were employed to gather feedback from evaluators (superintendents) and those being evaluated (principals), with 364 participants. Mixed-method analyses revealed areas of model utility, implementation challenges, and statistically significant differences between principals’ and superintendents’ perceptions of model efficacy. Implications for practice include recommendations to facilitate field-based support when implementing evaluative models.

Authors

• Kelly A Andrews, Richmond Community School Corporation

• Lori Boyland, Ball State University