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Evaluating Social-Emotional Learning: What to Know and How to Do It

As schools prepare to welcome students this month, one of the biggest questions they face is how to best help students and teachers reacclimate to in-person instruction while coping with

How to Address Building Management Tasks in School Principal Evaluation

The NEE Principal Evaluation system is a comprehensive approach that includes four independent measures to help evaluate and guide principals in their work as educational leaders. NEE’s Principal Evaluation system

Feedback from Users Guided Redesign of NEE’s EdHub Library

If you have been a part of NEE for at least five years, you likely remember our former EdHub Library. It was on a separate platform than the NEE Data

NEE Teacher Survey Gives Teachers Input in Principal Evaluation

High-quality principal evaluation processes incorporate multiple sources of data. We have previously reviewed three principal evaluation measures that are used in the NEE Principal Evaluation system. A fourth measure available

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Principal Professional Development Plan Guides and Documents Professional Growth Efforts

The Network for Educator Effectiveness’ Principal Evaluation system includes four independent measures that work together to document the varied and important functions of a school principal’s role. We have previously reviewed the NEE

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2021 NEE Superintendent Update and Principal Evaluation Session

The annual NEE Superintendent Update and Principal Evaluation session was recorded Thursday morning, May 20, 2021, and discusses updates to NEE, summer training for principals, wrapping up the year in

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NEE Building Personnel Development Plan Evaluates Principals’ Instructional Leadership

Continuing our series on the Network for Educator Effectiveness’ four principal evaluation components, this blog focuses on the NEE Building Personnel Development organizer. To read about the other NEE evaluation

Tips for Wrapping up the School Year with NEE

The end of the school year is in sight and you are ready for the warm, lazy days of summer. But wait! Did you finish everything in NEE so you’ll get off to a good start in the fall? Here are a few

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NEE’s BIP Evaluates Principals’ Leadership, Collaboration, and Communication on Building Goals

A school principal’s job is multifaceted, and evaluating a principal’s performance should be a robust process that incorporates multiple measures. The Network for Educator Effectiveness provides schools with a comprehensive approach to principal evaluation that includes

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A Comprehensive, Multiple-Measures Approach to Principal Evaluation

The school principal’s role is complex, with demands that are increasing in number and in levels of stress. The job requires both administrative and instructional effectiveness, with responsibilities that include

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What to Expect From NEE Recertification Training in 2021

2021 NEE Recertification Training sessions get under way in less than a month, and the NEE team is deeply focused on building the best training experience for evaluators who will

How the Network for Educator Effectiveness Helps School Districts Develop Effective Principals

A recent research report from the Wallace Foundation – How Principals Affect Students and Schools: A Systematic Synthesis of Two Decades of Research (February 2021) – provides clarity around the

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On the Drawing Board: A Peer Observation Tool from NEE

Peer observation can provide professional growth that far exceeds what teachers gain through traditional professional development sessions. Teachers who participate in a peer observation process can experience improved instructional skills

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Reflecting on Habits: How Disrupting Routines Spurs Educators’ Professional Growth

Have you ever been in the process of doing something and realized you have no memory of exactly what you have been doing? For me, this most commonly occurs when

Use NEE Data as You’re Planning for Next School Year

The end of the school year is so gratifying and empowering in the sense that you have triumphed and persevered through another school year – this one more challenging than

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Recipe for Peer Observation Success: Following Best Practices

Part One of NEE’s peer observation series presented the research findings surrounding the use of peer observation and its benefits as identified by researchers and practitioners. In this second part,

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Incorporating Video and Peer Observations Supports Continued Growth of Highly Effective Teachers

To support the continued professional growth of your highly effective teachers, we have previously shared two suggestions: Communities of Practice and Action Research. In a continuing series on supporting highly effective teachers, we share a few more suggestions

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How Peer Observation Can Help Your School

NEE currently offers multiple measures of educator effectiveness by combining classroom observations with teacher professional development plans, units of instruction, and student surveys. In addition, we teach administrators to utilize

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Introducing a New Registration Process for NEE Training

NEE is pleased to introduce a new, simplified registration process for NEE training. In addition to being exceptionally easy to register, the new process also includes an option to register

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Summative Conference Sets Next Professional Learning Focus

The definitive step in the teacher summative evaluation process is the summative conference that occurs between the school leader and the teacher. The actual feedback, planning, and support that occur during the summative conference

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Using the NEE Student Survey in the Teacher Evaluation Process

High-quality teacher evaluations incorporate multiple sources of data. Classroom observations are the most common source of data for teachers’ evaluations. Another important source of data, available in the Network for

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Are You Ready for Teacher Summative Evaluations?

Summative season is upon us: Many school leaders will soon complete summative teacher evaluations for the 2020-2021 school year. It has been an unusual year, to say the very least,

Considerations for Teacher Summative Evaluations in 2021

Over the summer of 2020, NEE released guidance and recommendations on evaluating effective teaching for the 2020-2021 school year. Hybrid learning, remote learning, in-person learning, and all the shifts back

Examples of Evidence to Collect for 4 Types of PIPs

We have previously discussed several steps and considerations for beginning and implementing a teacher performance improvement plan (PIP): When is it Time to Write a Teacher Performance Improvement Plan? How

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Four Research-Based Solutions to Alleviate Teacher Burnout

In previous blogs, I’ve discussed the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) of students and developing positive teacher-student relationships. (See Practical Applications from Research on Social-Emotional Learning; Four Approaches to Create

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Positive Teacher-Student Relationships Have Cascading Benefits

Healthy, positive teacher-student relationships are the foundation of great teaching. When students have a positive relationship with their teacher, they not only develop better social-emotional skills but also learn more

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Action Research Develops Powerful Insights for Teachers

We often hear principals say it is difficult to know what to say or do to support highly effective teachers. In an earlier blog post, we offered one idea for

Reviewing NEE’s 2020 Year One Training

As part of our continuous improvement cycle at the Network for Educator Effectiveness, we review what happened during the year’s training to inform decisions about future training. We have completed an initial analysis of the NEE Year One training sessions that occurred during the summer of 2020. Here’s a breakdown of what we’ve learned

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3 Phases of the PIP Action Plan Keep Teachers (and Principals) Accountable

The purpose of any teacher performance improvement plan (PIP) is to improve the performance of the teacher through professional development that ultimately improves the productivity of the school district. A

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NEE Gives Thanks

In the spirit of this month of Thanksgiving, the NEE team would like to take the opportunity to practice gratitude. 2020 has been immensely challenging, and we cannot diminish the hardships that have been

Reviewing NEE’s 2020 Recertification Training

As part of our continuous improvement cycle at NEE, we look at data from previous years training to inform decisions about future training. We have completed an initial analysis of

How to Introduce a Teacher Performance Improvement Plan to Set Up a Process for Growth

You have identified a specific teacher behavior that needs to change and your concern has elevated to the point you believe a teacher performance improvement plan (PIP) will be beneficial

The Monsters of Feedback

Halloween is approaching – ghouls, ghosts, and haunts of every kind are near. Yet, lurking in many schools throughout the year are other monsters: the monsters of bad feedback. Be on the lookout

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Four Indicators to Evaluate Culturally Responsive Teaching

If you’re considering evaluation of your culturally responsive teaching efforts, you have come to the right place. But before we dive in, let’s start with a few words of caution:

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Establishing Respectful Relationships with Students Requires Intentional Interactions Over Time

2020 has been an unprecedented year in our country. As schools address COVID-19 concerns in an environment of heightened attention to the fair treatment of people from all ethnic and

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When is it Time to Write a Teacher Performance Improvement Plan?

First and foremost, when considering whether to write a teacher performance improvement plan (PIP), know that every situation is unique and will require thoughtful consideration on your part as the

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Four Approaches to Create Positive, Upbeat Classrooms

In a previous blog, I pointed out that students learn more in positive, upbeat classrooms. The effect is even more powerful for at-risk students. The best SEL approaches emphasize increasing

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Practical Applications from Research on Social-Emotional Learning

Social-emotional learning (often called SEL) is not an “add-on” or something that is nice to get around to when you are done with the real business of teaching and learning.

Highly Effective Teachers Take the Reins on Professional Learning

Exceptional teachers are found in every school district. These are the teachers who inspire us to think creatively, who encourage us in our dreams, and who teach difficult subjects and

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Before You Evaluate Culturally Responsive Teaching, Lay the Foundation

Culturally responsive teaching (CRT) practices have gained traction over the past decade as educators strive to understand the increasingly diverse backgrounds and needs of their students. Now, amid ongoing unrest

New Integrated Learning Organizer Helps Track Professional Learning

Several years ago, the Network for Educator Effectiveness integrated the EdHub Library into the NEE Data Tool. We were thrilled to offer our members direct access to the library with

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Holding Your First Feedback Conversations of the School Year

The smell of a freshly waxed gym, the crisp look of new bulletin boards, the supply closet brimming with new stock. These are all typical signs that a new school

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Classroom Observation Essentials: 6 Key Recommendations

As September begins, and so do classroom observations, we want to take the time to remind you of six key recommendations about the classroom observation process. If you will be

Communities of Practice Offer Space for School Leaders to Share Ideas this Fall

As a school leader, you are likely feeling a heavy weight on your shoulders as school gets under way this fall. We want to help. NEE will offer two virtual

PBL is the Perfect Fit for Remote Learning

Using problem-based learning in a remote learning environment helps keep students engaged with their work. PBL is made for these extraordinary times. Starting with a Question of Import, or essential

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Conversations Set Expectations for a Growth-Oriented School Year

Last week, we provided back-to-school resources and materials that will be helpful as you start another year as a school leader in the Network for Educator Effectiveness. In this blog,

Back to School Resources for Administrators, Teachers, and Mentors

School bells are ringing once again. This year, normal back to school planning combines with new planning and new stresses for 2020-21. NEE is here to help with your planning and to provide quick ways

Welcome Chuck Mayes to the NEE Team

Welcome Chuck Mayes to the Network for Educator Effectiveness team! NEE’s newest team member is a former educator for the Sikeston R-6 School District in Sikeston, Mo. He retired this

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Evaluating Remote Teaching: Recommendations and Resources Now Available

Teacher evaluation is one of the many challenges school leaders are facing in their continued response to COVID-19. How should school leaders evaluate teaching in an uncertain environment, and what

Achievement, Motivation, and Engagement Improve When Students Set Their Own Goals: Here’s How to Do It

Research suggests when students set their own academic goals they experience greater achievement and motivation. My personal classroom experience supports this assertion that students who are engaged in setting and

Power Standards Provide Focus for Teachers and Help Students Succeed

As an educational consultant now for the past five years, I have worked with school districts to help teachers give their best to their students. One of those strategies is

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Evaluating Remote Teaching: What NEE Is Doing to Support Educators

This post was written before NEE released our educator evaluation resources and recommendations for remote settings. Please visit the Evaluating Remote Teaching page to access the resources that are referenced

Teaching By Design: How We Might Move From What Is to What Could Be

On Friday, May 1, the Network for Educator Effectiveness hosted a webinar presented by Dr. Leigh Neier titled “Teach by design: Rethinking default settings to achieve student-centered classroom culture.” Dr.

Addressing Teacher Evaluation Appropriately: How NEE Accounts for Growth and Complexity in Teaching Effectiveness

Last week, APA Division 15 published a new practice brief, Addressing Teacher Evaluation Appropriately. The brief makes two main recommendations for teacher evaluations: Practices should prioritize teachers’ professional growth and

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Teaching English Language Learners and Working With Immigrant Families From Home (Secondary Focus)

On April 30, the Network for Educator Effectiveness partnered with Strengthening Equity and Effectiveness for Teachers of English Learners (www.SEE-TEL.org) to host the second of two webinars titled Teaching English

Teaching English Language Learners and Working With Immigrant Families From Home (Elementary Focus)

On April 29, the Network for Educator Effectiveness partnered with Strengthening Equity and Effectiveness for Teachers of English Learners (www.SEE-TEL.org) to host the first of two webinars titled Teaching English

A Conversation on Remote Learning Resources and Support

On April 1, the Network for Educator Effectiveness facilitated an online discussion on providing remote learning resources and support as educators rapidly shift to distance learning models amid the COVID-19

A Conversation on Supporting Special Education Students in a Remote Learning Environment

On March 27, the Network for Educator Effectiveness facilitated an online discussion with 300 participants to discuss supporting special education students in this unique remote learning environment caused by COVID-19.

DESE Update and Q&A with Assistant Commissioner Chris Neale

On March 25, the Network for Educator Effectiveness facilitated an online discussion with Dr. Chris Neale, the Assistant Commissioner for Quality Schools at the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary

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A Conversation on Supporting ELL Students in a Remote Environment

On March 25, the Network for Educator Effectiveness facilitated an online discussion with more than 120 participants to discuss supporting ELL students in a remote learning. Panelists for the session

Continue the Teacher Summative Process During COVID-19

In the current atmosphere, finishing some of the processes that are a part of the regular school year seems inconsequential or unnecessary. Yet completing processes provides a sense of normalcy

Reflecting on ‘Deschooling’ and Adjusting to Our New Structure

Kids are now on their own. This is what each of us as educators strive for – for our students to be able to learn on their own, to be

Leading Whole Faculty or Small Group Online Professional Development

Student learning is not the only learning that has suffered from the sudden change to remote learning because of COVID-19. We have all had to do some intense professional learning

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With Remote Learning, Communication is the Key – For Everyone

Long-distance relationships are hard! And one of the biggest hurdles is communication. It’s difficult to be sure the tone, the importance, and the information all hit the perfect note. And

Student Engagement in Remote Learning Environments

As a veteran of facilitating online training sessions (some successfully and others not so much), I can tell you firsthand that student engagement is a HUGE component of online teaching.

Educator Evaluation and COVID-19: A Focus on Coaching and Support

This blog post was written as the COVID-19 crisis was unfolding in the U.S. in March 2020. NEE has since compiled an updated set of recommendations and resources for evaluating

Guidance for Completing Teacher Summative Reports in the NEE Data Tool

Now is the time of year when many evaluators are preparing and completing teacher summative reports. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of completing a summative report

Video Observations Can Benefit Evaluation Processes

More and more schools are incorporating video into the classroom observation process – and for good reason. There is plenty of evidence to suggest video can benefit evaluation processes and

The Importance of Reviewing Your Classroom Observation Data

It’s important to periodically review your NEE classroom observation data to measure progress toward meeting your building and district goals and make adjustments based on the data. NEE recommends that

Fueling Mid-Year Momentum: Keep Up Your Teacher Evaluation Goals

The beginning of the semester is a good time to check on your goals and reignite momentum toward your school initiatives. So, we want to know: How are you doing

A Multiple-Measures Approach to Teacher Evaluation Provides Administrators with Robust, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Research shows the single largest school-based factor affecting student achievement is the quality of teaching. Therefore, it’s important to have high-quality evaluation processes in place to measure the effectiveness of

Four Things to Remember about Classroom Observations

Throughout my time working with the Network for Educator Effectiveness, I have had many conversations with teachers and administrators about classroom observations. Some of these have been in offices, some

NEE Data Tool How-Tos, Common Questions and Solutions

If you’re managing NEE for your district, you often perform routine maintenance in the NEE Data Tool to keep your building and district data up-to-date. In this blog, we show

Four NEE Data Tool Features to Help You Get the Most out of Your Evaluation Data

Compiling teacher evaluation data in an online teacher evaluation system saves administrators time and eliminates stress. If you’re still tracking evaluation data by hand or fumbling through a home-grown system

Prescriptive Modules Now Available in EdHub

You’ve been asking for it, and we’re creating it! Principals often ask how they can assign EdHub modules to their teachers. Today, EdHub is one step closer to making your

Best Practices for Writing and Implementing Teacher Performance Improvement Plans

When teachers repeatedly get less-than-effective ratings, it may be time to implement a performance improvement plan, or PIP. In fact, 33 states – including Missouri and Nebraska – require teacher

Mission Possible: Strategies to Help You Accomplish Your Big Instructional Leadership Goals

“How can I possibly accomplish it all?” Have you found yourself asking that question in relation to your NEE implementation goals or your broader instructional leadership goals? Instructional leadership is

Effective Evaluation Supports New Teachers and Helps Keep Them in the Profession

With a third of the nation’s beginning teachers leaving the profession during their first three years, it is more critical than ever to provide the support needed to keep teachers

Dyslexia Legislation Update for Schools in Missouri and Nebraska

Starting in the 2018-19 school year, Missouri and Nebraska laws required public schools and charter schools to take new action on dyslexia. In each state, laws put an emphasis on

Data Helps School Administrators Lead Instructional Change Efforts

Educator evaluation is about much more than a score, and it goes far beyond the classroom walls. Effective evaluation means principals are accurately evaluating teachers, providing effective feedback, and implementing

Why Training Matters to Improve Classroom Observation

It’s summer. The grass is green, the pools are open, and our five Network for Educator Effectiveness trainers rack up the miles on the road for training. For educators, summer

Teacher Professional Development: 3 Activity Ideas for School Leaders

The beginning of a teacher professional development day or faculty meeting sets the tone for the learning to take place and the climate for the day. Get your time together

Effective School Leadership in Every Building: How School Leadership Development Drives Positive Changes in the Classroom

The children in our classrooms deserve no less than our best effort to provide them with the highest quality of instruction every single day. Our best effort requires educators to

Building Trust in Teacher Evaluations and the Confidence to Do Them Right

I still remember my first teacher evaluation experience late in the fall of my inaugural year. Although I was a young teacher, I was confident in my instructional abilities and

Saying No to ‘Cut Scores’ and Derogatory Labels in Teacher Evaluation

In the January 2019 District Trendline by the National Center on Teacher Quality, the focus concerned the language that was connected with teacher evaluation rubrics. In a quick report, NCTQ

The 3 Golden Rules and 5-Step Guide to Giving Effective Feedback

Effective feedback is essential for supporting and developing quality teaching, yet it’s not easy. The March 2019 issue of Educational Leadership framed addressing a teacher’s performance concerns as The Instructional