Newington school leaders unveil growth-focused educator evaluation system

In a recent meeting held in Newington, Connecticut, the Board of Education discussed significant updates regarding the evaluation and support plans for educators and leaders within the district. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of purpose as Mr. Ferrisi presented the annual report, highlighting the transition to a new evaluation system that emphasizes growth and development over traditional performance ratings.

This year, the district evaluated 365 certified staff members, including 29 certified administrators. The shift in evaluation methodology, mandated by legislation in 2023, marks a departure from the previous decade-long practice of rating educators. Instead, the focus is now on fostering professional growth, which Mr. Ferrisi described as "highly productive." This new approach aims to create more meaningful goal-setting opportunities and enhance professional learning aligned with individual goals.

The evaluation system is structured into two cohorts: non-tenured educators in their first four years and tenured educators with five or more years of experience. For leaders, the cohorts are divided into those with two years or less of experience and those with three years or more. This differentiation allows for tailored support, particularly for newer staff members who receive more frequent feedback and development opportunities.

The Professional Development Evaluation Committee (PDEC), co-led by Mr. Ferrisi and Ms. Talisha Foy, plays a crucial role in overseeing the evaluation process. They actively gather feedback from staff to refine the system continually, ensuring it meets the needs of educators and aligns with the district's mission and goals.

In addition to the evaluation updates, the board also discussed the continuation of a long-standing computer purchase program, which allows teachers to buy computers through payroll deductions. Although participation has declined over the years, the program remains valuable, especially for non-instructional staff who have recently gained access to it. The board unanimously voted to continue the program for the upcoming school year.

The meeting concluded with a report on professional learning initiatives, emphasizing the district's commitment to continuous growth and development for its staff. Mr. Ferrisi underscored the importance of aligning professional learning with the district's mission, ensuring that educators are equipped to provide the best possible education for their students.

As the board moves forward, the focus remains on fostering an environment of growth and support, ultimately aiming to enhance the educational experience for both staff and students in Newington.