Blog | Network for Educator Effectiveness

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Advanced Practices for NEE: Moving Beyond Compliance Toward Continuous Improvement

For many schools, the Network for Educator Effectiveness has become a familiar and established part of the performance evaluation process. Classroom observations, feedback conferences, and evaluation cycles are already built into the

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What District Leaders Should Know About Building Strong Principal Pipelines

At the 2026 Association for Education Finance & Policy conference in Chicago, two themes stood out. The first focused on Why Teachers Ignore So Much PD – and What Makes

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How Executive Coaching Delivers Results for School Leaders

Growing Confidence, Clarity, and Impact For decades, educational researchers have established that highly skilled principals are a cornerstone of effective schools. However, how principals develop their leadership skills is lesser

Authentic School Leadership in the Time of Artificial Intelligence

At the Network for Educator Effectiveness, we are continuously thinking about how to best support authentic leadership and build leadership capacity in schools. We seek to support educators in becoming

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Why Teachers Ignore So Much PD — and What Makes Them Use It

At the 2026 Association for Education Finance & Policy conference in Chicago, one theme stood out: Schools do not necessarily need more professional development. They need professional development teachers will

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Why School Districts Choose NEE to Drive School Improvement

If your district is searching for a proven, research-backed way to improve teaching, strengthen leadership, and elevate student outcomes, the Network for Educator Effectiveness (NEE) offers something few systems can: A comprehensive evaluation

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Using NEE to Improve Teaching and Learning: Lessons from School Leaders

Professional development is one of the most important tools schools have for improving classroom instruction to support student learning. Yet many educators have experienced professional development that feels disconnected, overly broad,

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How NEE Helps Rural Schools Boost Student Success, Especially in Math

At the Network for Educator Effectiveness (NEE), we have always believed that the right evaluation system doesn’t just rate teachers, it grows them. And research highlighted by the National Center

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Protecting Leadership Development Through Uncertainty

Economic ups and downs touch everyone from rural school districts to global corporations. And no matter the setting, one truth holds steady: Leadership shapes whether an organization can bend without breaking. The Center for Creative

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Using Written Feedback That Drives Instructional Improvement

Feedback is one of the most powerful tools school leaders have for instructional improvement. When used effectively, feedback not only strengthens teaching practice but also builds trust, clarity, and long-term professional growth. In this post, we’ll explore:

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NEE Implementation Decisions for Schools

When schools join the Network for Educator Effectiveness, they receive a comprehensive system for educator evaluation. NEE membership includes access to multiple evaluation measures for teachers, principals, instructional coaches, counselors,

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Gratitude Abounds: Thank You from NEE

Thanksgiving is such a great time of year. It’s the beginning of the holiday season, a time to reflect on the past year. It’s a chance to reconnect with those

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Using Teacher Evaluation and Feedback to Build Trust and Growth

Teacher evaluation often gets a bad reputation as a compliance exercise. But when done right, evaluation becomes a powerful tool for connection, trust, and growth. Here are eight ways principals

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When and How to Give Written Feedback to Teachers

Feedback from school administrators is a critical component of instructional leadership that drives teachers’ professional growth. Since its inception, the Network for Educator Effectiveness has trained school leaders to deliver

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NEE Indicator Scoring Practice Videos: 10 Minutes and 32 Seconds to Better Instructional Leadership

What can you get done in just 10 minutes and 32 seconds? At home, 10 minutes and 32 seconds is plenty of time to make your bed in the morning,

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New Tool Allows Schools to Evaluate All Staff Positions Through NEE

Looking to streamline evaluations for classified staff, district leaders, and stipend positions? The NEE Professional Responsibility evaluation is now available in the NEE Data Tool to meet your needs! Overview

Back to School Resources for Administrators, Teachers, and Mentors

Each August, school administrators can access several services and resources to complete important back-to-school tasks using NEE and EdHub. Let’s explore several ways NEE and EdHub help you get the

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NEE Consensus Scoring: What to Expect

One of the distinguishing features of the Network for Educator Effectiveness that separates it from other teacher evaluation systems is the training and support principals experience through NEE. NEE training

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Helping New School Board Members Get Acquainted with NEE

After annual school board elections each spring, a new leadership year begins for dedicated individuals who have offered their time and talent to help guide school districts. These leaders are

A teacher working with kids in her classroom while another teacher observes and takes notes on a computer in the NEE POWERHub peer observation tool

How to Use the NEE POWERHub Peer Observation Tool

The NEE POWERHub peer observation tool supports teachers and administrators in building a system of collegial observation and teacher reflection. As teachers work to learn, practice, and perfect new instructional

Lights, Camera, Action: Behind the Scenes of NEE’s Classroom Videos

Hollywood directors and producers are always looking for that next can’t-miss actor or actress. And although NEE may not produce Oscar-winning, full-length movies, we are on the hunt for superstars,

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Reaching Students Who Fall Through the Cracks

In every classroom, some students, despite the best efforts of their teachers and schools, seem to fall through the cracks. These students often struggle silently, might not ask for help,

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Teacher Development Contributes to High APR Score at Sarcoxie

Celebration is in order for Sarcoxie R-II! The district of around 700 students in Southwest Missouri recently scored 92.8 on Missouri’s Annual Performance Report (APR), a measure that demonstrates how

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Empowering School Librarians with NEE Evaluation

School librarians play a crucial role in fostering a love for reading and supporting students’ educational journeys. To ensure their efforts are recognized and enhanced, the Network for Educator Effectiveness

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – December

This is a continuation of a monthly series from the Network for Educator Effectiveness. We share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’ social

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – November

This is a continuation of a monthly series from the Network for Educator Effectiveness. We share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’ social

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A Heartfelt Thanksgiving Message from NEE

This time of year is my absolute favorite. The days and evenings are packed with celebrations, everyone is on the lookout for joy around every corner, and we all take

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Unlocking Teacher Potential: How Strength-Based Feedback Drives Instructional Excellence and Growth

Effective teacher evaluation systems rely heavily on the quality of feedback teachers receive from their principals. In a recent study, researchers explored how different types of feedback can help teachers

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Sample Feedback Statements from Principals to Teachers

Effective feedback is crucial for fostering teacher growth and enhancing student learning. By providing tailored feedback after classroom observations, principals not only support teachers in honing their craft but also

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – October

This is a continuation of a monthly series from the Network for Educator Effectiveness. We share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’ social

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How Dictation Technology Can Address Student Literacy Challenges

A professional learning program focused on improving student literacy has shown promising gains for struggling readers. Through the use of dictation technology, students are able to share their own stories

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PIVOT: Imagining a Better Way to Connect Ed Prep Programs, Beginning Teachers, and Districts

While the Network for Educator Effectiveness considered ways we can support the work of educator preparation programs, we knew we needed a better understanding of the day-to-day experiences and frustrations

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How NEE is Positioned to Support Educator Preparation Programs

The Network for Educator Effectiveness has always sought to address critical challenges in the field of education. Six years ago, we had the opportunity to become involved in the University

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Improve Student Behavior: 4 Steps to a Prosocial Classroom

Article adapted from Prosocial Education: the Four Pillars Prosocial education is the intentional focus on helping learners act with kindness as they collaborate and communicate with others and become more engaged in

Perspectives on Creating a Strategic Plan for Missouri’s Educator Ecosystem

On Monday, September 23, 2024, I attended the Educator Ecosystem Summit, an event coordinated by the Missouri Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (MACTE) on the campus of Lincoln University.

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – September

This is a continuation of a monthly series from the Network for Educator Effectiveness. We share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’ social

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Questions for Feedback Conversations with Highly Effective Teachers

The Network for Educator Effectiveness has developed the Four Paths to Effective Feedback to help school leaders provide effective feedback to teachers after classroom observations. As a principal, I always

New Report Adds Flexibility with Displaying Classroom Observation Scores

The Network for Educator Effectiveness is excited to announce the release of a new report option that provides school districts with greater control over how classroom observation data is viewed

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – May

This is a continuation of a monthly series from the Network for Educator Effectiveness. We share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’ social

NEE Welcomes Aaron Jones as Trainer and Field Representative

The Network for Educator Effectiveness welcomes Aaron Jones to the team as a trainer and field support representative! In his role with NEE, Aaron will be providing support to member

Two New Reports Available in the NEE Data Tool

The NEE Data Tool provides a place to store your data. But more than that, NEE supports your efforts to analyze that data. NEE offers a wide range of reporting

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – April

This is a continuation of a monthly series from the Network for Educator Effectiveness. We share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’ social

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Five Strategies to Find Time for Classroom Observations

When school administrators leave home in the morning, they have no idea what they will face during the school day. The responsibilities related to running a school are many and

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – March

This is a continuation of a monthly series from the Network for Educator Effectiveness. We share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’ social

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NEE Helps Leaders Build and Maintain School Culture

Earlier this school year, we wrote about how school leaders impact culture and climate through the responsibility and freedom of leadership. Leadership is tough, and building and maintaining school culture

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – February

This is a continuation of a monthly series from the Network for Educator Effectiveness. We share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’ social

A Turnaround Powered by Teacher Leadership and Peer Observation

In the early 2010s, Bayless School District in St. Louis, Missouri, was experiencing big challenges. Student achievement had dipped alarmingly low, and teacher morale was rapidly dwindling. School leaders knew

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – January

This is a continuation of a monthly series from the Network for Educator Effectiveness. We share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’ social

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NEE Teacher Satisfaction Survey: Celebrating Teacher Voices in Shaping an Inclusive Evaluation Environment

A heartfelt thank you to teachers: First and foremost, we extend our deepest gratitude to each teacher who participated in the Network for Educator Effectiveness’ teacher satisfaction surveys at the

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – December 2023

This is a continuation of a monthly series from the Network for Educator Effectiveness. We are looking to share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based

Strategies for Selecting Your Focus Indicators

Schools that are new to the Network for Educator Effectiveness kick-off their membership by selecting the 3-5 indicators they will use to focus their improvement efforts. After using that set

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Using Leadership Strengths to Drive School Climate and Culture

School climate and culture were repeated topics of conversation during the Network for Educator Effectiveness’ training with principals this past summer. There is clearly a strong interest in developing and

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – November 2023

This is a continuation of a monthly series from the Network for Educator Effectiveness. We are looking to share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based

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The ‘Green Flags’ of Effective Teacher Evaluation with NEE

School leaders want to be assured that their teacher evaluation processes have the greatest opportunity to propel teacher and student growth. A set of research-based best practices gives schools a

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Using Motivation Strategies to Retain Great Teachers

Across our nation, the need to retain our most effective teachers has become a crucial priority for school districts. A teacher shortage is forcing school districts to fill many classrooms

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – October 2023

This is a continuation of a monthly series from the Network for Educator Effectiveness. We are looking to share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based

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Developing and Growing Nontraditional Teachers

In my former role as an administrator, one of the most challenging aspects of my job was the process of hiring teachers. It was always important to identify educators whom

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Eurekas and Uh-Ohs: When to Add an Indicator During a Classroom Observation

Have you ever been observing a teacher when something happens that makes you go, “Wow!” But there’s no place to record it? Here’s the scenario: You are in a classroom

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Building Your Use of NEE Beyond Classroom Observations

The Network for Educator Effectiveness provides a comprehensive approach to school-wide educator evaluation. The NEE system includes four measures for teacher evaluation, four measures for principal evaluation, and unique evaluation

What is the NEE Advantage?

The Network for Educator Effectiveness is a comprehensive educator evaluation system designed to grow teachers and improve schools. The NEE system is built on the belief that educator evaluation should

Don’t Miss These EdHub Modules to Support Teachers’ Growth

The Network for Educator Effectiveness’ EdHub Library includes more than 500 modules for self-paced professional learning that can be used with individuals, small groups, or as presentations for the whole

Getting Started with Professional Learning in EdHub

The Network for Educator Effectiveness’ EdHub Library helps school leaders connect evaluations with data-informed professional development that empowers educators’ growth. The EdHub Library includes more than 500 modules for self-paced

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – June 2023

This is a continuation of a monthly series from NEE. We are looking to share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’ social media

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – May 2023

This is a continuation of a monthly series from NEE. We are looking to share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’ social media

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A Process for Changing Teacher Evaluation Systems

If you are reading this, it’s probably because you are looking for a change. It could be that your current teacher evaluation process is taking too much time, doesn’t provide

Social NEE-dia: School Spotlight – April 2023

This is a continuation of a newly created monthly series from NEE. We are looking to share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’

Takeaways for Educators from the 2023 AEFP Conference

The Association for Education Finance and Policy (AEFP) 2023 conference brought together researchers, educators, and policymakers to discuss the latest developments in educational research and practice. This year’s conference focused

How to Register for NEE Training

The NEE training registration process is exceptionally easy to navigate and includes an option to register for additional people. In this post, we’ll explain how to register for training and

Social NEE-dia School Spotlight – March 2023

This is a continuation of a newly created monthly series from NEE. We are looking to share the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’

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Guide to Using NEE’s Teacher Professional Development Plan

The Teacher Professional Development Plan (TPDP) is one of four measures that can be incorporated in a teacher’s summative evaluation with the Network for Educator Effectiveness. The PD plan is

10 Steps to Onboard to NEE

After your school has decided to join the Network for Educator Effectiveness, what happens next? First off, we commend you. The change process is not often easy, and we know

Social NEE-dia School Spotlight – February 2023

This blog is the first in a new monthly series in which NEE will be sharing the accomplishments, creativity, and good news of our partner districts based on schools’ social

Best Practices for Developing a Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP)

So, you’re tasked with leading or helping to lead the development of a new Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) for your district. Does thinking about the work involved in developing

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Coming Soon: Evaluating More School Positions with NEE

This one goes out to all the human resources directors. For years, the Network for Educator Effectiveness has been your platform for educator evaluation. We help school leaders evaluate teachers,

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Setting Up Effective Evaluation Processes for Special Education Teachers

The Network for Educator Effectiveness continues to build on our recommendations for teacher evaluation in special education settings. Earlier articles on this topic covered indicators of effective teaching to consider

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Classroom Observations in a Co-Teaching Environment

Some of my fondest memories as a special education teacher came from a co-teaching classroom. The planning, the flexibility, and the ability to share our strengths sparked creativity and positivity

Mid-Year Review of NEE’s Teacher Evaluation Timeline

As building principals prepare to turn their calendar page one final time this year, it’s also fitting at this mid-year point to review the progress made on NEE’s timeline for

NEE Gives Thanks to Educators

During this season of Thanksgiving, the Network for Educator Effectiveness wants to give thanks to you – the educators we serve. Our team shared the following words of gratitude for

A Focused Approach to the NEE Unit of Instruction

Exactly why is the Unit of Instruction (UOI) considered an important piece in the evaluation of a teacher? It is valued because no teacher can be successful if they cannot

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Evaluating Teaching in Special Education Classrooms

No matter the setting that school leaders evaluate teaching – no matter the grade level, the content area, the instructional model – typically, you’ll hear us say “good teaching is

Dressed for Success: Halloween Costumes for NEE’s Four Paths to Effective Feedback

Halloween is a time for us to have some fun, and the Network for Educator Effectiveness has taken that opportunity in recent years with timely blogs exploring The Monsters of

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Getting Student Performance Back on Track with NEE After COVID-19

In March 2020, the world as we knew it changed dramatically. With the arrival of COVID-19, our everyday lives were undeniably different. This was especially true in the educational environment,

What’s New in the EdHub Professional Learning Library

The Network for Educator Effectiveness’ EdHub Library currently offers over 500 professional development activities for teachers, school leaders, and specialists. The library materials are designed to provide specific supports for

Jill Wiseman Joins the Network for Educator Effectiveness

The Network for Educator Effectiveness is pleased to welcome Jill Wiseman to the team as a trainer and field support representative! Jill is the former superintendent at Fayette R-III, where

4 Steps to Manage Access to Your NEE Evaluation Data

This time of year, the NEE Help Desk receives a few calls that go something like this… Help Desk: Hello, this is Cathie at NEE. How may I help you?Caller:

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Professional Learning Action Steps Align with Feedback Paths

Have you ever been perplexed as to why a teacher doesn’t improve after you have conducted several post-observation feedback conferences? Do you fail to see a change in teaching behavior

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NEE Components for the Evaluation of School Specialists

In many respects, good instruction is good instruction regardless of the content area or grade level where the instruction takes place. This means the NEE teacher evaluation indicators and rubrics

NEE Superintendent Update – September 22, 2022

NEE hosted our second 2022 Superintendent Update session on September 22, 2022, to provide updates, review new resources, and discuss ways in which NEE can help schools with components of

The Importance of NEE Data in the CSIP Needs Assessment

Now that school is back in session and our schedules are settling into familiar routines, many district administrators in Missouri are returning to the work of the Missouri School Improvement

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How School District Leaders Work with Principals to Support Effective Teacher Evaluation Processes

The Network for Educator Effectiveness teacher evaluation system includes comprehensive processes, resources, and tools to support teacher growth. When implemented with fidelity, NEE promotes the development of high-quality teaching practices

NEE Superintendent Update – August 30, 2022

NEE hosted our first 2022 Superintendent Update session on August 30, 2022, to provide updates, review new resources, and discuss ways in which NEE can help schools with components of

Beginning Teacher Support Available Through NEE

Brand-new teachers bring a unique excitement and energy to a school, but they need support from school leaders to get off to a good start. An important part of a

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Supporting and Developing Effective Substitute Teachers

From kindergarten through the end of high school, the average student spends a whole school year with substitute teachers. And now – as schools grapple with a serious teacher and

New TPDP Feature Allows Teachers to Copy Previous Year

You asked for it, and NEE has delivered! Each year, our team adds new features to the NEE Data Tool online evaluation system based on user feedback and needs. This

NEE Welcomes Benjy Fenske to the Team

The Network for Educator Effectiveness welcomes Benjy Fenske to the team as a trainer and field support representative in Southwest Missouri! Benjy is the former superintendent at Clever R-V, where

New MSIP-6 Draft Continues to Clarify Next Steps for Districts

As the summer continues to race by, it is only natural for school leaders to direct more and more of their attention to the upcoming school year. In Missouri, transportation reimbursement

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Strengths-Spotting: Adding a Strength-Based Approach to Teacher Evaluation

The strength-based growth concept originated with social work. It focuses on using an individual’s self-determination and character strengths to support them in accomplishing change or growth. When used with teachers,

MSIP-6 Is Here: What Schools Need to Know and How NEE Can Help

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) recently released its draft MSIP-6 Comprehensive Guide. With the release of this guide, MSIP-6 suddenly moves from something abstract happening soon

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#NEETurns10: 10 Evaluation ‘Sides’ to Go with Your Classroom Observations

In the spirit of summertime, let’s imagine that the NEE menu of evaluation processes is a backyard barbecue. Classroom observations are the “main course” – the meat (or veggie burger),

#NEETurns10: 10 NEE Things To Do This Summer

Summer ushers in a much-deserved break for educators. With students out of the building, school leaders can take a breath and ease into a slower pace of planning and preparation

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NEE’s Monthly Implementation Timeline for Teacher Evaluation

Teacher evaluation is a major process within every school district, requiring a significant portion of administrators’ time and attention. With the Network for Educator Effectiveness teacher evaluation system, school leaders

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#NEETurns10: 10 NEE Indicators to Support High-Leverage Teaching Practices

Here at the NEE Help Desk, we often field questions about how a school should select their focus indicators. There are 39 NEE indicators in NEE’s teacher evaluation system, and

NEE Data Tool Reports Support Evaluation of Social-Emotional Learning

The Network for Educator Effectiveness helps schools evaluate the effectiveness of their social-emotional learning efforts through the use of high-quality educator evaluation processes. Comprehensive evaluation of social-emotional learning initiatives might

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Using NEE’s Four Feedback Paths for Peer Observations

Peer observation is a technique for teachers to observe other teachers’ lessons and offer feedback for the purpose of growth. Because peer observations are separate from the teacher evaluation process,

#NEETurns10: 10 Common Questions Answered by the NEE Help Desk

Throughout our 10 years of providing service to schools, the Network for Educator Effectiveness has held top-notch customer service as a core value. NEE is not your typical “vendor” for

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#NEETurns10: 10 of our Favorite BBQ Spots Along the NEE Trail

Some longtime participants in the Network for Educator Effectiveness know I happen to frequent local BBQ establishments while making my way to NEE schools. I’m not ashamed to admit my

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Educators, Never Underestimate the Impact of Showing Up

The Network for Educator Effectiveness hosted a webinar with Dr. Melissa Maras on Feb. 9, 2022, titled “Self Care? Don’t Care.” This blog is the second in a series of

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Overcoming Overwhelm: Strategies for School Leaders

The Network for Educator Effectiveness hosted a webinar with Dr. Melissa Maras on Feb. 9, 2022, titled “Self Care? Don’t Care.” This blog is the first in a series of

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NEE Training Announcement for Summer 2022

Registration for NEE’s summer training is now open on the NEE Events Calendar. Training opportunities begin in May and last through August. All trainings will be conducted online in either

NEE Celebrates Career and Technical Education Month

On Feb. 9, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson proclaimed February as Career and Technical Education (CTE) month. For many students, CTE is the bridge that connects their education to their post-secondary

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Structuring Feedback Conversations Based on Student Survey Results

The Network for Educator Effectiveness has provided guidance over the past few years on how to provide effective feedback. First, we created the Guide to Effective Feedback Conversations, which is

Connecting Principal Evaluation to Social-Emotional Learning

The Network for Educator Effectiveness helps schools evaluate the effectiveness of their social-emotional learning efforts through the use of effective educator evaluation processes. School leaders may use NEE’s teacher evaluation

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#NEETurns10: Benefits of NEE Implementation, According to School Leaders

As NEE celebrates 10 years of service to schools, we asked school leaders to share with us how the Network for Educator Effectiveness has impacted their schools. What is the

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Time to Revisit Time Management for School Leaders

Welcome back to the new year and the second semester of the school year. I trust you were able to enjoy family, rest, and eat way too much food that

How to Select a Focus to Improve Post-Observation Feedback Conversations

Think about all the tasks and responsibilities you have as a school leader. It can be overwhelming when you really stop to think about everything you are tasked with. Now,

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Are Your Listening Behaviors Landing You on the ‘Nice List’?

Happy holidays, friends! I am writing this blog post from my recliner basking in the glow of the holiday candles and watching the Michael Bublé holiday special. I hope you

Prescriptive Feedback Helps Teachers Develop Effective Use of an Instructional Strategy

As a former assistant superintendent leading PreK-12 academic programs, I often discussed with the other administrators in my district that there was no magic potion that was going to suddenly

Supervising Principals Effectively Title Slide

Providing Effective Feedback to Principals (Recording from November 30, 2021)

NEE hosted a session titled Providing Effective Feedback to Principals on November 30, 2021. This webinar focused on providing effective feedback to principals through NEE’s principal evaluation components and the

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Using NEE Teacher Evaluation Measures to Evaluate Social-Emotional Learning

#NEETurns10: The Top 10 Activities Available in EdHub

Administrators began using classroom observations through the Network for Educator Effectiveness in 2011 and quickly began reporting that their teachers needed professional development support to meet the instructional expectations of

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Motivating Teacher Growth with Diagnostic Feedback

There are times an evaluator conducts a classroom observation in which the teacher fails in their lesson due to a lack of understanding of an instructional concept. Using NEE’s Four

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The Sweet Stuff: If the NEE Teaching Indicators Were Halloween Candy

The costumes came and went, but my Halloween memories from childhood have one steadfast element: the trusty orange jack-o-lantern bucket. That bucket got heavier and heavier through the evening as

How School Leaders Can Use Micro Feedback to Listen and Learn

One of the most important jobs assigned to a principal is the evaluation of teachers. A critical question all principals should ask themselves is: “Do I judge teachers, or do

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Which NEE Indicators Can Evaluate Social-Emotional Learning?

Schools interested in improving social-emotional learning might consider implementing educator evaluation processes that ensure teachers and leaders receive regular feedback to become more effective on indicators related to SEL. A

Supervising Principals Effectively (Recording from October 6, 2021)

NEE hosted a session titled Supervising Principals Effectively on October 6, 2021. This webinar focused on the NEE principal evaluation components and how they can be used to measure the

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NEE Adds Feature to Allow Districts to Create an Indicator

The Network for Educator Effectiveness teacher evaluation system includes 39 indicators of effective teaching practice. 27 of those indicators are measurable in classroom observations and cover the most common indicators of effective teaching practice used in

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Encouraging Teachers to Become More Reflective in Their Practice

During NEE training this summer, we explored the Four Paths to Effective Feedback. One of those paths was the Descriptive Path, which requires teachers to reflect on their practice after

Are Your Teachers Prepared for Their Post-Observation Conference?

“I’m teaching one of the best lessons I’ve ever taught, and none of the students are paying attention.” It’s odd that years later I still remember these words coming into

#NEETurns10: 10 Things We’ve Learned About Teacher Evaluation in a Decade of NEE

WOW!!! It’s hard to believe that 10 years have passed since the beginning of NEE’s service to schools. It has been a great 10 years of growth and learning leading

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Preparing to Evaluate Social-Emotional Learning Indicators

Social-emotional learning continues to be a priority for schools, and some school leaders may consider evaluating teachers and principals using indicators that relate to SEL. Evaluation helps school leaders better

The Four Paths to Effective Feedback diagram

Tailoring Feedback for Teachers: The Four Paths to Effective Feedback

Providing effective feedback to teachers can be one of the most difficult aspects of the school principal’s job. As the instructional leader of the school, you have the amazing responsibility to influence, mold, and improve the teaching

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Lessons from the ‘New School Shoes’ Experience Apply to New Teaching Indicators

Principals know one of the easiest ways to make the first-week-of-school connections with students is to ask them about their new school shoes. Students are so proud of their new

Setting the Building Focus Makes Evaluation Processes More Meaningful

When preparing for educator evaluation processes, setting a building focus helps to promote growth and effective feedback between school leaders and teachers. At the Network for Educator Effectiveness, we encourage

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Conversations Set Expectations for a Growth-Oriented School Year

As educators head back to school this month, early conversations between school leaders and teachers set the stage for a growth-oriented year. One conversation administrators should not skip is around

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#NEETurns10: Reflecting on NEE, 10 Years Later

It was a rainy Saturday in early April 2011. I was restless because I couldn’t go outside to work in the yard or garden. So, I sat down in my

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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

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

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

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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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. Spring is the time that many school leaders prepare for and complete summative evaluations for teachers. As you prepare for summative evaluations this spring, this

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

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

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:

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

two students working together in a classroom

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

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

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

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

Child sitting at the table watching teacher on computer

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

Title slide for Teaching English Learners webinar

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

Title Card: Supporting ELL Students in a Remote Environment

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

Principals often ask how they can assign EdHub modules to their teachers based on classroom observation scores. Now, EdHub has a set of modules designed just for that purpose. Here’s

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 require teacher performance improvement plans or performance assistance

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

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 instruction every single day. Our best effort requires educators to routinely

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

Ready to learn more about effective feedback for teachers? We have a whole blog series dedicated to it! Effective feedback is essential for supporting and developing quality teaching, yet it’s