SCHOOL WIDE IMPROVEMENT PLAN SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE BUILDING A DREAM TEAM TEACHER EVALUATIONS

In the Name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

NEW ENGLAND COUNCIL OF ISLAMIC SCHOOLADMINISTRATIVE DEVELOPMENT

I. SCHOOL WIDE IMPROVEMENT PLANII. SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINEIII. BUILDING A DREAM TEAMIV. TEACHER EVALUATIONS

AGENDA

9:00 – 10:00 OPENING SESSIONSESSION I: 10:00—11:30 SCHOOL WIDE IMPROVEMENT PLAN

Forming a TeamQuality Indicators Determining PrioritiesDrafting the PlanEvaluating the Plan

SESSION II: 11:30--1:00 SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINEIntroduction & DefinitionsSeven Steps Of Establishing School wide DisciplineClassroom ManagementTips For Teachers

1:00—2:00 LUNCH & ZUHR PRAYERSESSION III: 2:00—3:30 BUILDING A DREAM TEAM

Seven Qualities of Effective TeachersUnique Qualities of The Islamic School Teacher30 Teaching Tips

SESSION IV: 3:30—4:45 TEACHER EVALUATIONSSetting the ExpectationsInformal/Formal ObservationsPre & Post-Observation ConferencesGoal setting and Goal AssessmentPortfolio Assessment 4:45—5:00 CLOSING SESSION Q/A

SESSION ISCHOOL WIDE IMPROVEMENT PLAN

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT• All schools want their students to succeed. But schools can

only make a lasting difference when they focus on specific goals and strategies for change.

• School improvement planning is a process through which schools set goals for improvement, and make decisions about how and when these goals will be achieved.

• The ultimate objective of the process is to improve student achievement by improving the way the curriculum is delivered, by creating a positive environment for learning, by developing teachers, by improving board and principal leadership, by increasing the parent involvement.

WHAT IS A SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN?

• A school improvement plan is a road map that sets out changes a school needs to make to improve the level of achievements.

• School improvement planning is a process through which schools set goals for improvement, and make decisions about how and when these goals will be achieved.

• Continuous improvement is a key to excellence. It is a process which starts by defining and setting standards, and then evaluating the school according to those set standards.

STEP ONEFORM A SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT TEAM

The School Improvement Team will develop a School Improvement Plan which has seven steps: Step 1: Form a School Improvement TeamStep 2: Collect and review data, and identify concerns Step 3: Agree on prioritiesStep 4: Form committees Step 5: Draft the planStep 6: Implement the planStep 7: Monitor, Evaluate & Renew the plan

SCHOOL WIDE IMPROVEMENT PLANStep 1

Form a School Improvement

team Step 2 Gather Data &

Define the areas of

Improvement

Step 3 Agree onPriorities

Step 4 Form

Committees

Step 5 Draft the Plan

Step 6 Implement

the Plan

Step 7Monitor and Evaluate the

Plan

WHO SHOULD BE ON THESCHOOL IMPROVEMENT TEAM?

A school improvement team should be a small but representative group:• Board representatives• Principal• Teachers representatives• Parent representatives • Community representatives

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLANGUIDELINES

School Improvement Plan should focus in following four areas:• Mission driven: Focusing on mission and serving

families and students within the stated mission• Data driven: Using good data and evidence for rigorous

and accurate assessment• Results oriented: Working toward expected results and

desired organizational outcomes.• Action oriented: Producing School Improvement Plan

with action items and measurable goals.

STEP TWO COLLECT AND REVIEW DATA

AND DEFINE THE AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT

The principal must ensure that the planning team has the necessary information to identify which areas of the school is most in need of improvement.

Schools are complex organizations, in which no single element guarantees success. Rather, there are different interrelated elements that contribute to the quality of schools.

Research identifies ten components which contribute to the success of the schools and data is organized in ten categories corresponding to the Characteristics of Successful Schools.

Based on evidence from across America, there are several common

components to successful schools.

WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS

OF QUALITY SCHOOLS?1. Clarity of vision2. Governance of the school3. Leadership4. Teaching Quality5. Curriculum 6. Culture of High expectations7. Parent Involvement8. Financial Stability9. Safety and Discipline10. Accountability System

1. CLARITY OF VISIONThe board and the the principal jointly creates, articulates, and guards the mission, vision, philosophy, goals, belief and value system of the school that is shared and supported by the community.

The mission and vision of the school are clearly stated,

effectively communicated to staff, parents, students & community members.

2. GOVERNANCE“The board is responsible for

creating the future, not minding the shop.“

John Carver

1. Establishing and Guarding the School’s Mission

2. Board Management

3. Selecting, Supporting and Evaluating the Principal

4. Financial Management

5. Strategic Planning

6. Policy Making

7. Legal Obligations

8. Monitoring

9. Accountability

10. Advocacy & Public relations

3. LEADERSHIP: PRINCIPALSuccessful schools have strong principals

1. Principal as the Inspirational and Spiritual Leader

2. Principal as a Visionary Leader

3. Principal as an Instructional Leader

4. Principal as a Manager, Managing the Organization

5. Principal as a Manager, Managing Finance

6. Principal as a Manager, Managing Facility

7. Principal as a Manager, Managing People

8. Principal as a Manager, Managing Self

9. Principal as a Builder, Building an Culture

10. Principal as a Builder, Building Community

4. QUALIFIED TEACHERS• The quality school employs the best possible

qualified, competent teachers to offer the best possible educational opportunities to the students.

In order for children to learn at high levels, they must have continual access to highly effective, caring teachers who meet high state standards.

Well prepared Experienced Role-modeling Instructional Strategies Classroom Management Professionalism Relationships Professional Growth

5. STRONG CURRICULUMA quality school offers strong and varied curriculum aligned with Islamic thinking

school’s mission and philosophy.

The school develops and publishes curriculum guide to define curriculum

goals and expectations and clarify what students learn in each grade level

to the school community.

6. CULTURE OF HIGH EXPECTATIONS

Successful schools are staffed by principals and teachers who expect every child to learn at high levels. Shared, rigorous expectations drive student achievement.

7. PARENT INVOLVEMENT

Successful schools assertively involve parents in the life of the school, making it possible for parents to support the learning process, influence decisions, and make choices about the children’s education.

The quality school has a community building events and activities, parent-school partnership plans and an effective PTO.

Communication between the parents and the school is two ways, clear and effective

8. FINANCIAL STABILITY

The board is accountable for the financial stability of the school.

The board ensures that there are adequate amount of financial resources to implement the stated mission, vision and strategic goals of the school.

The board treasurer or the finance committee chair ensures that the school practices sound financial management.

The board treasurer or the finance committee chair ensures that the board receives financial reports in a timely manner.

The board develops financial policies to ensure sound financial practices.

The board monitors the school’s financial practices and its compliance with financial policies.

9. SAFETY & DISCIPLINE Successful Schools provide a safe, well

disciplined, and caring environment for student learning.

They understand that unless students and

teachers feel safe and secure, high achievement is not possible. They develop:Crises Management & Emergency PlanSchool-wide Discipline PlanConflict Resolution Plan

10. ACCOUNTABILITYAchieving excellence is an ongoing process and anunfinished business.

Define success: The first step in this long journey isto define success and agree on this definition. Thisrequires the efforts of all that are involved withthe school (board, administration, teachers, staff, parentsand students)

Setting Standards: Successful schools set high standardsthat are well known to students, parents, and teachers.

Measurable Goals, Objectives, Strategies: After all thestakeholders agree on what excellence looks like, then thenext step is to set measurable goals, objectives andstrategies

Evaluating the School According to the Set Standards:Every aspect of the school will be evaluated periodically using the agreed upon standards

STEP THREEAGREE ON PRIORITIES

In this step, the School Improvement Team prioritize the areas of concerns that will be addressed in the improvement plan.

The goal in this step is to choose a few of the most pressing concerns that will be the focus of the improvement plan.

Concerns that are not designated as a priority for immediate improvement are retained within the program so that they can be addressed at a later date.

STEP FOUR FORM COMMITTEES

Once the school has set its priorities for improvement, task forces or committees can be formed and they can start working:

1.___________________2.___________________3.___________________4.___________________5.___________________

STEP FIVEDRAFT A SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN

School improvement team will decide who will write the plan. The writer captures and crafts the group’s ideas.

School improvement team needs to plan for the review process. The final approval comes from the board.

The committees work independently and they draft their action Items. The Action Items will outline the following points:• Goals• Identify Strategies • Target Date• Responsibility • Progress

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN Action items : Outline the specific tasks that need to be accomplished to

achieve the goal within the school improvement plan.

• Goals: The development of goals is a key step in effective school wide improvement plan. Goals can be defined as a written target of where an organization wants to be within a specific time frame. (SMART Goals)

Responsibilities: Identify who (e.g., staff, board, committee or others) will be held responsible for accomplishing the task.

Resources: Identify the resources needed to accomplish the action items.

Target Date: Include exact dates (months and year) by when each task should be completed.

Progress: Measure achievements against quantifiable objectives.

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLANFINANCE COMMITTEE

GOAL #1:

STRATEGIES RESPONSIBILITY RESOURCES TARGET DATE PROGRESS

STRATEGY #1:

STRATEGY #2:

STRATEGY #3:

STRATEGY #4:

STRATEGY #5:

SETTING SMART GOALS1. Specific: The more specific the goal is, the more likely the organization is to achieve it.

2. Measurable: There must be a way to determine whether or not the organization is making progress toward the goal, and there needs to be a way to clearly define the moment when the goal is achieved.

3. Attainable: Achievable within the time prescribed and with existing resources and constrains.

4. Results-oriented: Focused on outcomes and short term achievements to gain longer term goals.

5. Time specific: A time frame for completion is established. Tying to set a goal with a deadline is critical. Goal achievement is usually based on a specific time frame, and accountability for achieving the goal is significantly enhanced when it is linked to a deadline.

IDENTIFY STRATEGIES

• The strategies are systemic changes that your team will implement to reach your improvement goal.

• In this step, the School Improvement Team to identify the strategies to reach each goal.

STEP SIXIMPLEMENT THE SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN

Schools should ensure that the school improvement plan is implemented effectively and planning documents must be merged to an annual plan. The following points need to be considered for implementing the school improvement plan:• Design an implementation plan.• Align the school’s operation to the school improvement plan.• Empower the people who execute the plan.• Allocate resources effectively, putting money where the future is.• Turn strategic priority issues into assigned, measurable action plans.• Embed departmental planning.• Develop an accountability system.

STEP SEVENMONITOR, EVALUATE & RENEW

To ensure that the improvement plan is having the desired effect, the School Improvement Team will establish evaluation criteria for each improvement goal, as well as for each strategy:• Establish formal annual assessment of the

school wide improvement plan.• Make sure the school improvement plan is

directing every action of the organization.• Revitalizing the planning process and entering a

new cycle of planning.

SESSION IISCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE

SESSION I INTRODUCTION & DEFINITIONSSESSION II SEVEN STEPS OF ESTABLISHING

SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINESESSION III CLASSROOM MANAGEMENTSESSION IV TIPS FOR TEACHERS

WHAT ARE THE IMPORTANT FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO STUDENT LEARNING?

Herbert Walberg (1986) stated that three factors contribute to student success and learning:

1. Student Aptitude

2. Teacher Instruction

3. School Environment

THREE IMPORTANT ELEMENTS OFSCHOOL ENVIRONMENT

1. Discipline

2. School wide Discipline

3. Classroom Management

THE GOAL OF DISCIPLINEThe goal of discipline is replacing unacceptable behavior with acceptable behavior.

The ultimate goal of discipline is building self-discipline in children.

WHAT IS SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE?

• An entire school, with everyone working together, to teach a child expectations and procedures and to develop a positive climate.

• Total school discipline is not by chance or luck. It is planned and acquired.

THE GOAL OF SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE

• The goal of school wide discipline is school wide consistency.

• School wide discipline is more general than classroom

management. Examples: – All students are to follow uniform guidelines.

– Students are expected to maintain a respectful demeanor with adults.

– Students are expected to show respect for school property.

CLASSROOMMANAGEMENT

CLASSROOMMANAGEMENT

CLASSROOMMANAGEMENT

CLASSROOMMANAGEMENT

CLASSROOMMANAGEMENT

CLASSROOMMANAGEMENT

CLASSROOMMANAGEMENT

CLASSROOMMANAGEMENT

CLASSROOMMANAGEMENT

SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE

SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE / CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT

WHAT IS CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT?

• A classroom management is a practice which will minimize classroom disturbances and maximize learning.

• A classroom management plan supports the school wide discipline plan.

• Education cannot exist in the classroom unless order and discipline are present.

THE GOAL OF CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT

• The goal of classroom management is to create an environment where learning proceeds without interruption.

• Classroom rules are more specific than school wide discipline:– Follow the classroom rules.– Follow directions.– Stay in your seat unless you have permission to get up.– Keep hands, feet, and other objects to yourself.

OBEDIENCE MODEL vs. RESPONSIBILITY MODEL

• Authority figures

• External Control

• Fear of getting caught

• Detached

• Self-discipline

• Internal Control

• Desire to do the right thing

• Involved

STEP 1DISCIPLINE COMMITTEE

STEP 6COMMITMENTTO DISCIPLINEPLAN

STEP 7MONITOR &EVALUATE THE PLAN

STEP 2DISCIPLINEPLAN

STEP 3PROVIDE TRAINING

STEP 4RESOURCEMATERIALS

STEP 5CLASSROOMMANAGEMENTPLAN

SEVEN STEPS OF ESTABLISHING SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE

SEVEN STEPS OF ESTABLISHING SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE

Step 1: Create a “School wide Discipline Committee”

Step 2: Establish the “School wide Discipline Plan”

Step 3: Provide training to teachers, students and parents

Step 4: Create and make available resource materials

Step 5: Assist teachers in establishing their “Classroom Management Plan”

Step 6: Require everyone to commit to the

School wide Discipline Plan

Step 7: Monitor and evaluate the School wide Discipline Plan

STEP 1ESTABLISH A SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE

COMMITTEE

Teamwork of all adults is critical to establish a positive school environment.– Principal– Teachers– Students– Parents– All adults that are in charge

CREATE A SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE COMMITTEE

SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE

PARENTS

STUDENTS

BOARD

SUPPORTSTAFF

PRINCIPAL

TEACHERS

THE PARENTS’ RESPONSIBILITIES

• Reviewing school rules with students.

• Cooperating with school staff in enforcing the school’s disciplinary measures.

• Reinforcing appropriate behavior of students at home.

• Developing an interest in the student’s academic and school related activities.

THE STUDENTS’RESPONSIBILITIES

• Behaving in the school and the classroom in a manner that does not disturb or interfere with the rights of others.

• Respecting the authority of teachers, administration and other school personnel to enforce school rules.

• Using and caring for school property.

THE TEACHERS’ RESPONSIBILITIES

• Establishing “classroom rules, consequences and rewards” and a classroom management atmosphere.

• Assisting in the development and enforcement of school rules.

• Communicating with parents and students regarding students‘ performance.

THE ADMINISTRATION’S RESPONSIBILITIES

• Enforcing the discipline policies within the existing school policies and state and federal laws.

• Supporting teachers by holding conferences with disruptive students and, when necessary, with their parents to obtain commitments to improve behavior.

• Advising students and parents of possible consequences for continued violation.

• Ensuring that the due process rights of students are observed.

STEP 2ESTABLISH SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE

PLAN1. Create a common vision and understanding of positive school

environment. 2. Establish a School wide Discipline Plan in order to address

the following: – Discipline Philosophy– Goals and Objectives– Guidelines and Strategies

3. Get everyone’s commitment to the School wide Discipline Plan.

4. Monitor the School wide Discipline Plan.

STEP 3PROVIDE TRAINING

The committee provides training and shares the School wide Discipline Plan with the teachers, students and parents.

STEP 4CREATE DISCIPLINE RESOURCES

Establish needed discipline resources to promote consistency at the school:• Create a shared vision

• Create guidelines

• Create common language

• Define expectations for behavior

• Create forms and handbooks

STEP 5CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT PLAN

• Classroom is the nucleus.

• Assist teachers to establish their “Classroom Management Plan.”

• School wide discipline starts with classroom management.

STEP 6REQUIRE EVERYONE TO COMMIT TO THE SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE PLAN

• There must be a strong commitment to the school wide discipline plan.

• Everyone follows the rules and regulations.

• When staff members bend the rules, students break the rules too.

• Consistency in enforcement of the rules.

STEP 7MONITOR AND EVALUATE THE

SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE PLAN• Regularly monitor the effectiveness of the

School wide Discipline Plan.

• Annually evaluate the plan and set new goals.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A WELL-MANAGED CLASSROOM

1. Students are deeply involved with their work, especially with academic, teacher-led instruction.

2. Students know what is expected of them and are generally successful.

3. There is relatively little wasted time, confusion, or disruption.

4. The climate of the classroom is work-oriented, but relaxed and pleasant.

THE CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT PLAN

The three components of classroom management:

1. Rules: A set of expectations for classroom behavior.

2. Consequences: Specific consequences for choosing not to follow the expectations.

3. Rewards: Positive incentives to reinforce behavior when students choose to follow the expectations.

CLASSROOM RULESThe most successful classes are those where the teacher has a clear idea of what is expected from the students, and the students know what the teacher expects from them.• Decide on classroom rules and write them down.

• Communicate your expectations clearly to your students.

• Ask students for their commitment.

SAMPLE CLASSROOM RULES

Limit the number of rules and state rules positively:• Follow directions.

• Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself.

• Use appropriate language at all times.

• Raise your hand and wait for permission to speak.

• Stay in your seat unless you have permission to do otherwise.

CONSEQUENCES• Rules are most effective when there are

consequences to enforce them.

• Students are disciplined in a progressive manner according to the seriousness of the offense and number of them:– Minor offenses– Major offenses– Severe offenses

CONSEQUENCESIf you choose to break a rule:

• FIRST TIME: Name on the board. Warning.

• SECOND TIME: One check, 15 Min. after school

• THIRD TIME: Two checks, 30 Min. after school

• FOURTH TIME: Three checks, 45 Min. after school. Parents called

• FIFTH TIME: Four checks, 60 Min after school, students sent to office.

• SEVERE: Student sent to office immediately.

DO NOT INTERRUPT INSTRUCTION WHEN GIVING OUT CONSEQUENCES

• Print and laminate cards like the one you see below.• Place one on the misbehaving student’s desk.

THIS IS A WARNINGYou need to be more politeI’ll talk to you laterMrs. Muhammad

THIS IS A WARNINGYour behavior is not acceptableSee me at the end of classMrs. Muhammad

REWARDSIf you choose to follow the rules

• Popcorn party• Ice cream party• Sticker/stamps• Letters home• Certificates• Free time• Treasure box• Fun box

TIPS FOR TEACHERS

STATEMENTS FROM TEACHERS:

• “If you would give me good students, I could teach!”

• “No wonder we have discipline problems, look at the lousy parents, staff members and administrators we have.”

• “When I was young, kids had respect for authority.”

• “I teach science/English, I don’t have time to teach kids how to behave.”

THE TEACHER’S ROLE• The teacher is responsible for organizing a well-managed classroom

where students can learn in a task-oriented environment.

• Teachers who develop skills in effective classroom management have classes in which students are on task and deeply involved with their academic work and misbehavior is rare.

TEACHER’S MISSION STATEMENT IN SCHOOL WIDE DISCIPLINE• To empower my students.

• To impart self-esteem.

• To be a positive role model.

• To provide a safe and productive classroom atmosphere.

• To accept and respect each student.

CHARACTERISTICS OFEFFECTIVE TEACHERS

Effective teachers are always ready:• Effective teachers have their room ready

• Effective teachers have their work ready

• Effective teachers have themselves ready

PLANNING FOR A SUCCESSFUL SCHOOL YEAR

1. Send a letter home to the parents before school begins.

2. Stand at the classroom door with a big smile and a ready handshake.

3. Prepare the seating assignment and first assignment.

4. Post the assignment daily in the same location.

EFFECTIVE TEACHERS EXPLAIN CLASSROOM PROCEDURES CLEARLY

• What to do when the bell rings

• What to do when a pencil breaks

• What to do when the fire drill bell rings

• What to do when you finish your work early

• What to do when you have a question

• What to do when you need to go to the restroom

10 WAYS TO BUILD A POSITIVE RELATIONSHIP WITH STUDENTS1. Treat everyone with dignity and respect

2. Develop effective relationships with students

3. If you need to discipline a student talk to student privately

4. Be consistent and fair

5. Be forgiving

6. Praise good behavior

7. Help student set goals for themselves

8. Catch kids being good

9. Focus on the positive

10. Inform/involve parents

10 WAYS TO TAKE CHARGE1. From the first class meeting onward, establish that you control the class.

2. Be prepared.

3. Keep high expectations.

4. Always have a smile on your face.

5. Call parents as soon as a problem arises.

6. Establish signals to help students learn to control themselves.

7. Always consider students’ short attention span.

8. Always keep students busy.

9. Stay on your feet and monitor.

10. Be clear that you expect your students do their work well and that you will help them learn to do it.

10 DISCIPLINE TECHNIQUES TO AVOID

1. Making fun of students2. Raising your voice and yelling3. Comparing students4. Throwing students out of class5. Nagging6. Being sarcastic7. Embarrassing students8. Losing your temper9. Being a poor role model10. Speaking negatively about a student in front of

others

NEGATIVE MESSAGES• Can you cooperate just once in a while?

• Show me you have a brain and make a good choice for a change!

• Would it be asking too much to get a little respect?

• Is that the best you can do?

• Try that again. I dare you.

• There’s one jerk in every classroom.

• That’s real bright

• I knew I couldn’t count on you.

10 STRATEGIES TO SEND FRIENDLY AND FIRM MESSAGES1. Writing a reminder on the board

2. Saying a code word

3. Flicking the lights

4. Moving to a certain spot and waiting

5. Counting backwards from ten

6. Turning music on or off

7. Holding up a sign

8. Dropping a note

9. Not talking until they are quite

10. Holding your hand up and counting

10 COMMON REASONS FOR STUDENT MISBEHAVIOR

1. They are having a conflict with a peer

2. They are excited about an upcoming event

3. They want your attention

4. They want the attention of their peers

5. They finished their work early

6. Their work is too hard or too easy

7. They are distracted

8. They don’t know the rules

9. They are bored

10. They don’t understand the lesson

SESSION IIIBUILDING A DREAM TEAM

I. SEVEN QUALITIES OF EFFECTIVE TEACHERII. UNIQUE QUALITIES OF THE ISLAMIC SCHOOL TEACHERIII. 30 TEACHING TIPS

In a completely rational society, the best of us would aspire to be teachers

and the rest of us would have to settle for something less,

because passing civilizations along from one generation to

the next ought to be the highest honor and highest responsibility anyone could have.

Lee Iacocca

ISEVEN QUALITIES

OF EFFECTIVE TEACHERS

REMEMBER YOUR LEAST FAVORITE TEACHERAND WHAT CHARACTERISTICS HE/SHE HAD?

1.___________2.___________3.___________4.___________5.___________6.___________7.___________8.___________

Remember, by the very nature of your position,

you will influence the lives of every student you teach.

Whether that influence is a positive or a negative one,

it will most certainly be a lasting one.

REMEMBER YOUR FAVORITE TEACHER ANDWHAT CHARACTERISTICS HE/SHE HAD?

1._____________2._____________3._____________4._____________5._____________6._____________7._____________8._____________

“The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.”

William Arthur Ward

WE ASKED THE STUDENTSWHAT THE IDEAL TEACHER WOULD LOOK LIKE?

• Students want teachers to be nice and smile often• Students want teachers to care about them• Students want teachers to be understanding• Students want teachers to help them when they are struggling• Students want teachers to be patient with them• Students want teachers to be fair and consistent• Students want teachers who actually like teaching• Students want teachers they can trust• Students want teachers who don’t scream at them• Students want teachers who actually get to know them• Students want teachers who believe in them• Students want teachers who make learning interesting• Students want teachers who don’t embarrass them in front of their peers• Students want teachers who challenge them to be their best• Students want teachers who help them succeed• Students want teachers who don’t give up on them

MY PROMISES TO MY STUDENTS

• I promise to be nice and smile often.• I promise to care about each of you.• I promise to be understanding.• I promise to help you when you are struggling.• I promise to be patient with you.• I promise to be fair and consistent.• I promise to enjoy teaching you.• I promise to be trustworthy.• I promise never to scream at you.• I promise that I will get to know you.• I promise to believe in you.• I promise to make learning interesting and meaningful. • I promise that I will not embarrass you in front of your peers.• I promise that I will challenge you to be your very best.• I promise to do everything I can to help you succeed.• And I promise that, no matter what, I will never give up on you.

SEVEN QUALITIES OF EFFECTIVE TEACHERS

1. LESSON PLANNING

2. INSTRUCTIONAL EFFECTIVENESS

3. CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT & DISCIPLINE

4. STUDENT MANAGEMENT

5. HOME-SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP

6. POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS

7. PROFESSIONALISM

SEVEN QUALITIES OF EFFECTIVE TEACHERS

• These essential skills are seven areas of expertise in which teachers absolutely must excel to be effective.

• These skills must be learned, practiced, improved and perfected.

1. LESSON PLANNING

If I had eight hours to chop down a tree,

I’d spend six sharpening my axe.

Abraham Lincoln

EFFECTIVE TEACHERSPLAN EFFECTIVELY

Effective teachers:• Plans effectively and comprehensively.• Devises lesson plans that reflect state framework as well as sound

professional pedagogy.• Writes and makes available lesson plans that are clear, and adhere to the

approved format.• Writes lesson plans that are aligned with curriculum guides and school

standards.• Demonstrates an awareness of how children learn and includes effective

teaching strategies in lesson plans.• Plans activities that are appropriate for the developmental and academic

level of the students.• Infuses basic skills, test-taking skills, technology, audio-visuals into plans.• Reflects an interdisciplinary approach to instructional delivery in the

lesson plans.

LESSON PLANNING FORMAT

1. Objective / purpose: What the students will be learning and why they will

be learning 2. Anticipatory set: Establish a hook to stimulate

students’ interest

3. Instructional input: Teach new skill

4. Modeling: Model the new skill

5. Guided practice: Practice the new skill with student

6. Assessment: Check for understanding

7. Closure: Review what has been learned

2. INSTRUCTIONAL

EFFECTIVENESS

Dear Teacher,

On Monday you gave me 20 words for Friday’s vocabulary testI wrote the five times every night and I studied my very bestOn Friday, I was well prepared to repeat them back to youI got them all, word for word, as I was expected to doBut I have a confession to make to you-despite the grade I

earnedThose words have left my memory now, no vocabulary have I

learnedYou see, I never used the words or spoke them in

conversationSo I guess we both just wasted our time-what an awful

revelation!So next time, leave the lists alone; make me use the wordsIf you don’t, then I’ll soon lose them; they’ll fly away like

birdsI want to keep whatever I learn; I want to deserve the grade I

earnI want to be smart and wise, but wisdom doesn’t come when I

memorize!I really want to learn, sp throw the lists and watch me grow!

THE PRINCIPLES OF LEARNING

Learning is developmental

1. We learn in different ways

2. We learn at different rates

3. We learn through interacting with one another

4. We learn through observing, doing and teaching

5. We learn more effectively when we have significant input into decisions about our learning

6. Learning is more effective when we are motivated

7. We learn best when the knowledge has meaning, relevance and practical application

3. CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT & DISCIPLINE

The number one problemis not discipline;it is the lack of

procedures & routines!

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEENRULES & PROCEDURES

• A rule is something that regulates a serious student misbehavior: If it is broken, there must be a consequence every time.

• A procedure is simply a way that you expect something to be done.

THINGS THAT TYPICALLY REQUIRE PROCEDURES

• How to walk into the classroom• What to do when you enter the room• What to do when you need a pencil

sharpened• How to ask permission to speak• How to walk to lunch• How to exit the classroom• What to do in case of a fire drill

ESTABLISHING PROCEDURESStep 1: State the procedure and the importance of following it.Step 2: Model the procedure for the students. Show them exactly how you want it done.Step 3: Practice the procedure with the students.Step 4: Remind the students about the procedure right before they are expected to follow it. Then praise them when they do follow it.Step 5: If a student does not follow the procedure, provide more practice.Step 6: Remain consistent with the procedures

SIGNALSUse a classroom signal for attentionWhatever signal you use -- be consistent!!!

GIVING DIRECTIONSPlan your directions ahead of timeUse 3 step directionsGive directions immediately before activitiesGet the attention of every studentGet feedback from studentsTell them and show themKeep your voice lowUse signals for whole class response

Thumbs up = yesThumbs down = noFist = question or I don't know

4. STUDENT MANAGEMENT

RAPPORT WITH STUDENTS

Effective Teachers• Relates to students in a manner that promotes trust and mutual

respect.

• Shows interest in students, both individually and collectively.

• Encourages and supports camaraderie among members of the class.

• Serves as a counselor, confidante, advisor, mentor, and a guide.

• Encourages open dialogue between students.

• Displays optimism, confidence, and hope when interacting with students.

• Encourages positive exchanges between students.

• Strives to find qualities in each student that can be nurtured and celebrated.

SELF-ESTEEMEffective teachers: • Promotes student self-esteem and sensitivity to the feelings of others.

• Recognizes and accepts student contributions, feelings, and ideas.

• Maintains mutual respect with students.

• Embraces the unique qualities of each student.

• Encourages students to actively participate in class and interact positively with others.

• Is sensitive to the emotional needs, family concerns of the students.

• Remains nonjudgmental toward students.

• Reinforces positive self-esteem in students.

• Helps students develop self-confidence.

• Demonstrates that each student is important and that their input matters.

MOTIVATING STUDENTSEffective teachers:• Introduces instructional techniques, projects, materials that stimulate interest.

• Seeks ways in which to improve student achievement.

• Sets high achievement standards.

• Highlights student work that exemplifies (quality, growth, effort).

• Displays student work during Open House, school/community events and/or in local newspapers, commercial establishments, libraries.

• Praises students for their efforts and accomplishments.

• Demonstrates the ability to motivate students.

• Relates subject matter to real-world situations in order to promote a greater understanding of concepts.

• Plans field trips, assemblies to enhance student enthusiasm.

• Enters into partnerships with museums, science centers, libraries, corporations, institutions of higher learning, agencies to provide supplemental experiences.

5. PARENT-TEACHER

PARTNERSHIP

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

Effective teachers:• Communicates frequently and effectively with parents.

• Maintains an open line of communication with parents, community groups.

• Regularly inform parents of student progress.

• Communicates with parents through writing letters, telephoning, e-mail, attending meetings.

• Helps parents recognize and understand the instructional methods by which their child learns.

• Advise parents on setting up home-study areas for their child.

• Studies cultural customs and expectations of parents.

• Involves parents as volunteers, lecturers to assist in the classroom.

• Establishes a partnership alliance with parents. 

PARENT-SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP

SCHOOL + PARENTS = SUCCESS

Parent Involvement Better Students Better Community

When parents get involved in their child’s education:• Grades go up• Behavior improves

6. BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS

RELATIONSHIP WITH THE ADMINISTRATION

Effective teachers:• Applies administrative suggestions in a timely and effective

manner.• Remains open to administrative suggestions for professional

improvement.• Performs duties in a manner consistent with administrative

requests.• Works effectively with administrators in order to reach school

objectives.• Maintains a positive rapport with the administrative staff.• Takes advantage of opportunities to collaborate with

administrators regarding curriculum, materials, equipment, resources, physical plant, student discipline, mission, objectives, climate and special events.

• Complies with administrative guidelines, policies, suggestions, requests.

• Is responsive to administrative suggestions.• Understands and supports the administrators’ role in the school

organization.• Implements constructive suggestions provided by administrators

and/or supervisory personnel after conferences, observations, evaluations.

RELATIONSHIPS WITH COLLEAGUES

Effective teachers:• Cultivates a warm professional relationship with colleagues.• Establishes a sound rapport with agencies that interact with students,

parents, and the school.• Assists with grade level, school, community projects.• Interacts with specialists, teacher assistants, aides, para-educators to

enhance opportunities for student achievement.• Collaborates with support staff, specialists, ESL/bilingual staff in order to

enhance student success.• Openly and honestly communicates with colleagues.• Maintains sound relationships with facilitators, substitute teachers, staff

developers, aids, team/department leaders, administrators.• Willingly shares ideas, materials, expertise, responsibilities with

colleagues.• Demonstrates a commitment to the goals, programs, and the agenda of

the school. 

RELATIONSHIP WITH PARENTS & COMMUNITY

Effective parents:• Notifies parents frequently, often, weekly, monthly of their child’s

progress.• Establishes a climate of mutual respect with parents, and the

community.• Learns more about the various cultures represented in the school

community.• Embraces the community in which the students live.• Learns about available community resources.• Engenders a parent-friendly atmosphere.• Uses e-mail, telephone, letter to communicate with parents.• Coordinates with social service agencies, public safety units,

community groups, corporations to promote student-based initiatives.

• Communicates good news, as well as concerns to parents.• Interacts with students and families through community

involvement.

7. PROFESSIONALISM

PROFESSIONALISM• If you consider yourself professional, then you have to appear

professional at all times.• Dress such that your students will see you as a professional and

that anyone you meet will instantly know you’re a professional.• Remain in control of your actions and reactions with students, no

matter what.• Do not take student behavior personally.• You can be serious without being loud and losing control.• Always attack the problem; never attack the person.• Never stop growing professionally.• Do your best, be your best, and give your best every day that

you teach.• Keep your students as your main focus. Make every decision

based on what’s best for them, as opposed to what’s easiest for you.

PERSONAL HABITS

Effective teachers:• Maintains a healthy sense of humor.• Maintains personal appearance and conduct, serving as a model

for students.• Demonstrates (conscientiousness, reliability, energy,

industriousness, professionalism).• Practices patience, empathy, consistency, fairness, firmness

when dealing with students.• Is cooperative and helpful while performing duties.• Exhibits energy, enthusiasm while completing assignments.• Uses correct and expressive spoken and written language.• Remains open to change and to overcoming obstacles.• Maintains a professional demeanor.• Reflects on personal habits in light of accepted professional

practices.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTEffective Teachers• Becomes a lifelong learner.• Observes alternative teaching practices by visiting out-of-district

school sites, colleges, laboratory schools, charter schools.• Purchases or subscribes to professional journals, periodicals, book

clubs to keep abreast of contemporary issues in education.• Upgrades teaching proficiencies using technology, laboratory

projects, research, professional journals, related software, post-graduate courses, conferences/workshops.

• Attends professional workshops, seminars, conventions, symposiums, in service sessions, continuing education courses to remain current with educational developments.

• Enrolls in evening classes, weekend classes, summer institutes to further professional growth.

• Networks with institutes of higher learning, teacher training centers, internet chat-rooms, professional groups, colleagues to enhance professional knowledge.

IIUNIQUE QUALITIES OF THE ISLAMIC SCHOOL TEACHER

QUALITIES OF THE ISLAMIC SCHOOL TEACHER

In addition to the essential qualities of effective teachers the Islamic School teachers will be:

1. Mission driven & passionate: They consider teaching as their calling

2. A positive role model

3. Building Islamic personality, character and values

4. Helping students internalize values

5. Helping transform their students’ personalities

6. Helping to develop in students an Islamic thinking, consistent with Islamic philosophy of life and hereafter

7. Developing an appreciation of Islamic art, architecture, literature…

1. MISSION DRIVEN & PASSIONATE

The Islamic school teacher is mission-driven, feeling a “call”

to teach as well as a passion to help students learn and grow.

To be passionate teacher is to be someone in love with a field of knowledge, deeply stirred by issues and ideas that challenge our world, drawn to the dilemmas and potentials of the young people who come into class each day and captivated by all of these.

Fried (1995, p.1)

2. BEING AN EXAMPLARY ROLE-MODEL

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was a role-model with his character and manners, conduct, speech, words,

wisdom, behavior and his management of affairs.

The Qur’an praises the Prophet Muhammad’s character:

"And verily, you (O Muhammad) are certainly of exalted character“

Qur’an 68:4

Prophet Muhammad was chosen by Allah to teach humanity His final message because of his noble personality.

BE A ROLE MODEL FOR YOUR STUDENTS

Good teachers must be good role models; they must have good character and manners;

and they must practice what they preach.

“Children have never been good at listening to their elders, but they have never

failed at imitating them.”

James Baldwin

ROLE-MODELINGIt was my first faculty meeting, and several teachers were talkingTalking while the principal spoke-gossiping and complainingAnd the the issue of students arose, and those teachersThey said “Amen” to the issue of punishing students for talking“Send them to the principal, remove them from my classThey’re interfering with the learning of the others who want to learnHow dare they be so rude as to do the things they do!They’re embarrassing themselves, yet they do not have a clueThey speak when I am speaking, they don’t do all their workThey Obviously have no mannersWell, as a new teacher, I did not say a wordI just sat back and witnessed it all-the irony was absurdHow can you expect your students to do things you won’t do?If you want your students to be respectful, shouldn’t it begin with

you?

EXCELLENT CHARACTER

3.BUILDING ISLAMIC PERSONALITY, CHARACTER AND VALUES

Effective teaching is developing people; by role-modeling values;

creating a value-based environment; and providing a value-based education.

“To educate a man in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society.”

Theodore Roosevelt

MODEL CHARACTER TRAITS1. Empathy2. Respect3. Patience4. Flexibility5. Collegiality6. Creativity7. Problem-solving8. Positive Attitude9. Sense of Humor10.High-expectations 11.Forgiveness-Amnesia12. Care

4. INTERNALIZING ISLAMIC VALUES

1. Islamizing the school environment with Islamic ethos2. Islamic environment with dignity, compassion,

critical thinking, brotherhood 3. Teaching children to look at the world from a

Qur’anic paradigm4. Strong knowledge base grounded in Qur’an5. Strong Islamic identity that is source of pride6. Teaching Islam with passion7. Adult Role-Models who live Islam fully8. Caring teachers who help students find their

purpose in life

INTERNALIZING VALUESThrough Different Techniques:• Moral Dilemmas• Skits• Value based plays• Value based dramas• Role-playing• Discussion• Debates

MORAL DILEMMAFatima’s Dilemma: To Tell or Not to

Tell?• Fatima and Miriam were best friends. One day they

went shopping together. Miriam tried on a sweater and then, to Fatima’s surprise, walked out of the store wearing the sweater under the coat. A moment later, store security officer stopped Fatima and demanded that she tell him the name of the girl who had walked out.

• The storeowner said to Fatima, “Come on now, come clean. You could get into serious trouble if you don’t tell us your friend’s name.”

• Should Fatima give Miriam's name to the storeowner? Why or Why not?

STAGES OF MORAL REASONING IN RESPONSE TO FATIMA’S DILEMMA

1. Avoidance of punishment: Will I get in trouble?

2. Why should the innocent be criminalized?

3. Interpersonal Loyalty: What will people think of me?

4. Concern for social consequences: What if everybodydid it?

5. Respect the rights of every person?

5. TRANSFORM STUDENTS PERSONALITIES

Islamic school teachers transform their students personalities through Holistic Approach:

• Intellectual Growth

• Social Growth

• Moral Growth

• Physical Growth

• Spiritual Growth

SPIRITUAL GROWTHSpirituality is connectedness with Allah (swt).Spiritual people have higher purpose and deeper meaning in their lives:

• Internally: Purification of self from bad intentions, deceit, hypocrisy, selfishness, arrogance and prejudice

• Outwardly: It becomes manifested in one’s attitude, behavior and character

6. DEVELOP IN STUDENTS AN ISLAMIC THINKING

• Do you think that We created you without purpose, and that you would not return to Us? (Qur’an 23:115)

• We should contemplate the higher purpose and deeper meaning of our lives

PURPOSE IN LIFEPurpose in life is a contribution to the world that uses your whole self fully and gives your life passion, fulfillment and meaning through dedication to something larger than yourself.

Involves a deep, heartfelt sense of belonging and commitment that moves you passionately.

Has primarily to do with a certain way of being in the world which would permeate everything you do.

7. APPRECIATION OF ISLAMIC ART

The effective Islamic School teacher help the students to develop appreciate of Islamic Art.

The effective Islamic school teacher uses in her classroom as decoration, the arts from Islamic architecture, calligraphy and Muslim artists work.

The effective Islamic school teacher uses Islamic music, nasheeds and other fine arts in her classroom.

III30 TEACHING TIPS

TEACHING TIP #1REFUSE TO GIVE UP ON ANY CHILD

“Good teachers make poor students good and good students superior.”

“When our students fail, we, as teachers have failed.”

Marva Collins

TEACHING TIP #2GREET STUDENTS DAILY AT THE DOOR

“I greet my students at the door every single day with a hug. I believe in making them feel welcomed, wanted, and special. Sadly, I know that for some students, it is the only hug they receive all day. I also know that when students feel welcomed in a classroom, they are much less likely to cause discipline problems. So it’s a win-win situation.”

Rebecca Morell

TEACHING TIP #3INSPIRE FOR A LIFETIME

If you plan for a year, plant a seedIf you plan for ten years, plant a treeIf you plan for hundred years, teach people

• Students are much more in need of inspiration than of information.

• The information we provide is important, but the inspiration we provide is life-altering.

TEACHING TIP #4CELEBRATE THE UNIQUENESS OF YOUR

STUDENTSI am not my older brotherSo please do not compareTo treat me as anotherWould surely be unfairHe has ways of doing thingsWays that are his ownHe is okay, but there is no wayThat I’ll become his cloneI am not my older brother And I do not wish to beI am happy to be who I amAnd that is simply me

A poem by a student

TEACHING TIP #5BE PROACTIVE

“One of the tests of leadership is the ability to recognize a problem before it becomes an emergency.”

Arnold H. Glasow

TEACHING TIP #6BE A ROLE MODEL FOR YOUR

STUDENTS“Children have never been very good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them.”

James Baldwin

TEACHING TIP #7MAINTAIN YOUR COMPOSURE

“Self-control is the hardest victory”Aristotle

“Someone made me mad todayAnd I am wanting to unloadMy temperature is boiling hotAnd I feel like I’ll explode.”

TEACHING TIP #8AVOID ACTING WHEN ANGRY

“Speak when you are angry, and you will make the best speech you will ever regret”

Ambrose Bierce

TEACHING TIP #9DO NOT ALLOW YOUR PERSONAL PROBLEMS

TO SPILL OVER INTO THE CLASSROOM

“If you do not have personal problems, then you are not a person. However, if you allow your personal problems to spill into your classroom, then you are not a professional!”

TEACHING TIP #10CONSIDER A STUDENT’S SELF-ESTEEM A

PRIORITY

If you maintain a child’s dignity, you will see lasting results.

If you take away a child’s dignity, you may face lasting revenge.

Epictetus

TEACHING TIP #11GROW AS A PROFESSIONAL“Never become so much of an expert that you stop gaining expertise. View life as a continuous learning experience.”

TEACHING TIP #12LIGHT A SPARK IN YOUR STUDENTS

“What really matters is not so much what students walk away with in their hands but rather how many sparks were ignited in their hearts. Students don’t want more stuff. They want inspiration. The teacher, not the content determines whether students walk away ignited or extinguished.”

TEACHING TIP #13MAKE EVERY STUDENT YOUR FAVORITE

“If you would win a man to your cause, first convince him that he is your friend.”

Abraham Lincoln

TEACHING TIP #14SET THE STAGE FOR SUCCESS

“The man who can make hard things easy is the educator.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

TEACHING TIP #15PROVIDE POSITIVE FEEDBACK

“I can live for two months on a good compliment.”

TEACHING TIP #16AVOID SARCASM

“The inner landscape of many children is full of mines ready to explode upon careless contact. Any insulting remark can set off an explosion.”

Haim Ginott

TEACHING TIP #17DIGNIFY INCORRECT RESPONSES

“If you maintain a child’s dignity, you will see lasting results. If you take away a child’s dignity, you may face lasting revenge.”

TEACHING TIP #18COOPERATE WITH ADMINISTRATION

“In truly effective schools teachers work together in cooperation with administration.

“Teamwork is so important to the success of a school.

It requires mutual respect between administrators and teachers.”

Linda Nance

TEACHING TIP #19MAKE THE OBJECTIVES “CLEAR” FOR EACH LESSON

If you know where you are going, you are much more likely to get there.

TEACHING TIP #20REFRAIN FROM “LECTURING”

Lecturing is one of the least effective means of instructing, yet it is most often used!

TEACHING TIP #21TEACH MORAL & ETHICS

“To educate a man in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society.”

TEACHING TIP # 22RELATE LESSONS TO REAL LIFE• Do you ever hear a student ask, “why do

we have to know this?” • If you do, then it’s a red flag to you that

you have not made that critical “real life” connection!

• Aristotle said, “All knowledge is relational.”

TEACHING TIP #23ENCOURAGE STUDENTS TO WORK

COOPERATIVELY

Do your students know how to work together, to cooperate with one another? If not, it is time to teach them.

TEACHING TIP #24ENCOURAGE ACTIVE STUDENT

PARTICIPATIONI hear and I forgetI see and I rememberI do and I understand

Chinese Proverb

TEACHING TIP #25CHALLENGE STUDENTS TO THINK CRITICALLY

“Too often we give our students answers to remember rather than problems to solve.”

Roger Lewin

TEACHING TIP #26BUILD A STRONG PARTNERSHIP WITH PARENTS

“I have always respected those teachers who were genuinely interested in my children and willing to work cooperatively with me in solving problems.

“I am much more likely to support a teacher who will listen to my concerns and not just dismiss me as an overbearing parent.”

A Parent

TEACHING TIP #27PARTICIPATE IN SCHOOL FUNCTIONS

“I make a concerted effort to participate in school functions. It helps me to get to know both the students and their parents better.

“I believe it also sends a message to students and parents that my students mean more to me than the academics.”

Middle School Teacher

TEACHING TIP #28AVOID LOUNGE GOSSIP

“Anyone who will gossip with you will gossip about you.”

TEACHING TIP #29BE THE BEST YOU CAN BE

• It is only in giving our best that we can possibly expect to bring out the best in our students.

• Be the best teacher you can be, and your rewards will come to you in the form of young hearts and young lives forever changed because of your influence.

TEACHING TIP # 30SET GOALS FOR YOUR IMPROVEMENT

Goals are accomplished one step at a time. And written goals are far more likely to be accomplished than those we just stored in our heads.

SESSION IVTEACHER EVALUATIONSSetting the ExpectationsInformal/Formal ObservationsPre & Post-Observation ConferencesGoal setting and Goal AssessmentPortfolio Assessment

INTRODUCTION• Competent, dedicated and well performing teachers are any school’s most important

resources.

• Teachers are the professionals most directly responsible for helping all students to learn, and students benefit or suffer from the quality of teaching they receive. Moreover, any society is at risk when its schools fail to educate its children and youth.

• Formal teacher evaluations are a necessary part of educational administration.

Teachers should view them as a learning experience, as a way for both the teacher and the administrator to grow in understanding and knowledge.

• Teacher strengths will be discussed so that they can be capitalized upon and developed further. Teacher weaknesses will be identified so that appropriate methods can be devised to resolve or alleviate them. They will provide direction for staff development.

TEACHER EVALUATION

PURPOSE

• The purpose of the teacher evaluation process is to assess the teacher’s performance in relation to the Teaching Standards and to design a plan for professional growth.

• The principal or a designee will conduct the

evaluation process in which the teacher will actively participate through the use of self- assessment, reflection, presentation of artifacts, and classroom demonstrations.

ORIENTATION

PRE-OBSERVATION

POSTOBSERVATION

INFORMAL OBSERVA-

TION

FORMAL OBSERVATION I

INFORMAL OBSERVA-

TION

INFORMAL OBSERVA-

TION

FORMAL OBSERVATION

II

PRE-OBSERVATION

POSTOBSERVATION

INFORMAL OBSERVA-

TION

INFORMAL OBSERVA-

TION

SUMMATIVE EVALUATION

TEACHER EVALUATION PROCESS

PROFFESIONALINDIVIDUAL

DEVELOPMENT PLAN

TEACHER EVALUATION COMPONENTSComponent 1: Orientation Before participating in the evaluation process principal will provide orientation about the evaluation process and copy of evaluation document to the teachers. Component 2: Informal ObservationsInformal observations will consist of short classroom visits. Teachers should expect drop ins from administrators anytime.Component 3: Pre-observation Meeting Within two weeks of a teacher’s first day of work in any school year, the principal will call for a one one one pre-observation meeting with each teacher. Component 4: Formal ObservationsAll the teachers will have two scheduled formal observation during the year. A formal observation will last for the duration of the class period.Component 5: Post-observation MeetingAfter the formal observation, post-observation conference will be held. During this meeting, strengths, weaknesses and suggestions for improvement will be discussed. Teacher’s self-evaluation, goal and strategies will be discussed.Component 6: Professional Individual Development Plan (PIDP)The Individual professional improvement plan provides an opportunity to focus on professional growth. The process starts with principal and the teacher setting goals for the year. Then the principal and the teacher determine the implementation plan and the timelines. This will be the PIP for the teacher and the principal and the teachers will work accomplishing goals throughout the year.Component 7: Year-end Evaluation Summative MeetingThis will be the final evaluation meeting for the year. The principal will discuss the teacher’s total performance and the PIP for the year and goals will be discussed and if they were not achieved will be moved to next year’s goals. A written and signed evaluation with commendations and recommendations will be placed in teacher’s file.

COMPONENT 1ORIENTATION

• At the beginning of the school year all the teachers will be given the policies and procedures relating to evaluation process by the principal.

• The principal will review with the staff the policy and procedures on evaluation and answer the questions the staff might have.

OBSERVATION PROTOCOL Pre-Observation Conference •Clarify goals and context •Evidence of student achievement •Strategies chosen •Focus for data collection Post-Observation Conference with Analysis of Student Work •Summarize impressions of lesson •Recall data to support impressions •Analyze student work •Share observation data •Draw conclusions •Reflect and plan to move forward

COMPONENT 2INFORMAL OBSERVATIONS

Frequent

5-7 minute observation Unannounced

Collect specific data

Analyze data and give written feedback

RATIONALE FOR THE INFORMAL OBSERVATIONS

Gather data

Communicate that the classroom is the priority Frequent, short observations can be powerful Make use of the pivotal role of principal in shaping the school culture

Create opportunities for collaborative conversations

Give feedback that helps a teacher reflect on his/her best practices

Observe the implementation of all school programs

COMPONENT 3PRE-OBSERVATION MEETING

The goal of this meeting is to prepare the principal for the observation.

Before the first formal observation, the principal shall meet with the teacher to discuss the observation process and answer the teachers’ questions

Clarify goals and expectations for the observation.

The principal will go through the evaluation form.

The teacher will provide the principal with a written lesson plan.

COMPONENT 4FORMAL OBSERVATIONS

CLASSROOM OBSERVATION GUIDELINES Principal’s observations should be welcomed by teachers & students as an opportunity to share their classroom with the principal. The principal should always have a supportive attitude: Body language is positive and supportive Greet the teacher-- eye contact and a smile Sit in an low-profile spot. Focus on what the teacher and students are doing Maintain a pleasant demeanor Take notes discreetly Walk around as appropriate looking at student work Engage with students as appropriate Observe evidence of learning displayed around the room Leave with a smile and a quiet thank you to the teacher

OBSERVATION DATA

A formal observation shall last at least forty-five minutes or an entire class period.

CONTENT: What are the students learning?

Standard: Teachers Know the Content They Teach

ALIGNMENT: How does this learning connect to standards?

Standard : Teachers Facilitate Learning for Their Students STRATEGIES: What are the students and teacher doing?

Standard : Teachers Establish a Respectful Environment for a Diverse Population of Students IMPACT: How does it maintain student interest and attention?

OBSERVATION DATA

CONTENT: What are the students learning? • • ALIGNMENT: Does it match grade level standards? • • STRATEGIES: What are the students and teacher doing? • • IMPACT: What is the impact of these strategies on student learning? • • Areas to reinforce: Areas to pose for refinement and reflection:

COMPONENT 5POST-OBSERVATION CONFERENCE

• The principal shall conduct a post-observation conference no later than five school days after each formal

observation. • During the post-observation conference, the principal and teacher shall discuss and document the strengths

and weaknesses of the teacher’s performance during the observed lesson.

Summarize impressions of the lesson

Acknowledge effective practices

Focus on areas of improvement and growth

Pose questions to facilitate self-reflection & analysis

Prepare suggestions Establish desired outcomes

Decide next steps and set goals

Reflect upon the process and propose refinements

WRITTEN FEEDBACK

Each note is an opportunity to shape the instructional program and learning environment: • Build on what’s working give meaningful, specific data • Be strategic • Avoid judgments • Finish up with a “Thank you!’

A Note: Suggestions or questions that imply criticism can create a defensive reaction when left in a note. Save suggestions for collegial conversations or observation conferences.

WRITTEN FEEDBACK FOR OBSERVATIONS1. Provide the content 2. Include alignment to standards 3. State the effective practice observed 4. Give supporting evidence and details about impact 5. Finish off with Thank you!___________________________________________________________________________ To: John From: Mary Date: 5/2/08 During my visit I observed: 1. Students were working in partners making predictions about how factors of light, water

and touch would effect plant growth.2. This is a grade level science activity. 3. You articulated clear goals for students by telling them what they would learn and posting

outcomes.4. Students frequently referred to the charts outlining their activity. This helped them stay

on task. Thank you!

SAMPLE OBSERVATION NOTES

To: Teacher From: Principal Date: 9/12 During my visit I noticed:

Students were learning about the causes of the Revolutionary War. Recording their ideas on a mind map, they interrelated the political context with scientific, educational and social issues of the day. You also asked students to draw comparisons with their lives. We know that learning is facilitated when students connect new learning to what they already understand as well as to their personal experiences. Thanks!

SAMPLE OBSERVATION NOTESTo: Teacher From: Principal Date: 9/12 During my visit I noticed: Students were practicing proving that triangles are congruent by using the corresponding parts of congruent triangles (GLS: Geometry 5.0). Students were working in pairs while you circulated answering questions and prompting. This kept students focused and kept students on the right track. I appreciate your warm yet firm manner with students. Thanks!

COMPONENT 6PROFESSIONAL INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Teachers shall develop an Professional Individual Development Plan designed to improve performance on specifically identified areas. Professional Individual Development Plan will identify the areas to be improved, the goals to be accomplished and the activities the teacher should undertake to achieve proficiency, and a timeline which allows the teacher in a school year to achieve proficiency.

PROFESSIONAL INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN

• The PIDP Plan shall, at a minimum, identify: • The areas to be improved• The goals to be accomplished• The activities the teacher shall complete to achieve

Proficiency• A timeline for achieving Proficiency within one

school year or such shorter time as determined by the Principal.

• A PIDP that meets those criteria shall be deemed to satisfy the requirements

COMPONENT 7SUMMATIVE EVALUATION CONFERENCE

Prior to the end of the school year the principal shall conduct a summative evaluation conference with the teacher. During the summative evaluation conference the principal and teacher shall discuss:1. The teacher’s self-assessment

2. The teacher’s most recent Professional Individual Development Plan

3. The components of the Teacher Evaluation Process

4. Classroom observations

5. Artifacts submitted or collected during the evaluation process

6. Give a rating and comments for the areas in the Teacher Evaluation Form

7. Provide the teacher with the opportunity to add comments to the Teacher Evaluation Form

8. Review the completed the Teacher Evaluation Form with the teacher

9. Secure the teacher’s signature on the Teacher Evaluation Form

GIVING FEEDBACK

1. Base your feedback on observable evidence. 2. Reinforce evidence of effective practice. 3. Be specific rather than general. 4. Describe rather than evaluate. 5. Note the impact of the teacher’s behavior on the students. 6. Attend to the teacher’s stated needs or area of focus.

LANGUAGE THAT SUPPORTS LEARNING

Focus on teacher’s needs: “What will help you…” An approachable voice Acceptance, empathy Open ended questions Plural forms (goals, possibilities) Present tense (How do you…?) Positive presuppositions

HELPFUL STATEMENTS

By seeking permission to provide direct instruction, the supervisor honors the adult’s control over learning: Would you like more information about…? Would it be helpful if we spent time looking at…? A couple of things to keep in mind… Some teachers have tried… it might work for you. Sometimes it’s helpful if…

WHICH APPROACH IS MORE POWERFUL?

Option 1: “The class was not engaged while a student shared her book for five minutes.”

Option 2:“How could the student who was sharing her book involve the rest of the class in her presentation?” Suggested questions: “How is… different from…?” “How do you decide…?” “What would happen if…?” “What criteria do you use to…?”

Be careful of some questions can come off as sharp criticisms. “Why…?” can prompt a defensive response.

CONCERNSWhat is a concern? Is it grounded in evidence Is it tied to a standard Is it an assessment made by the supervisor Is it an opportunity for growth in an area in

which the teacher is blind or resistant

When might a supervisor need to raise the concern directly?

COMMUNICATING CONCERNS

1. Opening • Let the teacher know that the meeting is to discuss a concern and to problem solve. • Reassure the teacher that the reason for the supervision process is to provide support. 2) Explain the concern • State the concern and provide evidence. • Acknowledge the teacher’s feelings and provide the opportunity for questions or

comments. 3) Plan next steps • Summarize or clarify the area for growth. • Create a plan for next steps and write it down.

4) Closure • Close by asking for feedback about the conference • Suggest a follow-up meeting.

COMMUNICATING CONCERNSOPENING

• When a concern is raised during a conference, stop the flow of the conference, and let

the teacher know that you would like to address the issue.

“What you have just described has raised a concern that I’d like to take some time to discuss.”

• Let the teacher know that the meeting is to discuss a concern and to problem solve. “The reason I asked you to meet with me is that I have a concern about . .” • Reassure the teacher that the reason for the supervision process is to provide support.

“It’s my role to communicate openly with you and to support you as a professional.”

COMMUNICATING CONCERNSEXPLAIN THE CONCERN DIRECTLY

• Clearly state the concern and provide evidence. Use school goals, teaching standards and describe standards of professional practice. Seek understanding of the concern from the other points of view.

“My concern is that . . . because . . .” “The following comments have been made by students, parents, colleagues . . .“

• Acknowledge the teacher’s feelings and provide the opportunity for questions or comments.

“Do you have any questions or comments”? ”How do you feel about what I’ve shared?”

COMMUNICATING CONCERNSPLAN NEXT STEPS

• Summarize or clarify the area for growth. “ So, your goal would be . . .” “ So if you could . . . then . . .” “ Let’s restate your goal . . .”

• Create a plan for next steps and write it down. Ask the teacher to take the lead. Share in the process, restating as needed in the language of professional standards.

“Let’s talk now about next steps. What steps might you take . . ?

“How would it be if . . ?” “What do you think about . . ?

COMMUNICATING CONCERNSCLOSURE

• Close by asking for feedback about the conference. “It’s not easy when concerns are raised . . . I really appreciated . . .”

“What is some feedback you can give me about this conference and our future work together?”

• Suggest a follow-up meeting. “Let’s meet in two weeks to discuss progress.” “I’d like to visit your classroom so I can support you.” “Please feel free to stop by and let me know how things are going

• Pause and Reflect “What are three changes in practice you can commit to

implementing as a result of our time together?

A TEACHER’S TEN COMMANDMENTS

1. Seek advice. No one is an expert at everything.2. Get organized!3. Be aware of each child’s needs.4. Plan ahead.5. Be flexible– changes are inevitable.6. Stay in touch with parents; they are a vital link!7. Read, read, READ!8. Keep teaching as long as you enjoy it.9. Act professionally: Your position is as important to our

society as that of a doctor, banker, lawyer, or businessperson!

10. Remember, you ARE making a difference in the world!Rebecca Lynn Wilke,

Ed.D.

ALWAYS REMEMBER!Every child is a gift from God

Every child has been gifted by God

Every child is someone special

Every child is capable of success

Every child deserves a fair chance

Every child truly wants to succeed

Every child deserves to be treated with dignity and respect

Every child deserves a capable, caring, competent teacher

Every child has strengths that need to be recognized & nurtured

Every child craves love and appreciation—which every teacher should provide

I believe Allah created us and

gave each one of us a unique gift.This gift needs to be identified and

nurtured. It will be sad if we go through our lives

without finding our gift and without finding

our students’ gifts.

Hopefully,We will each share our gifts

to make the world a better place!

MAY ALLAH GUIDE US TO BE THE BEST TEACHERS WE CAN BE;

SO WE MAY INSPIRE OUR CHILDREN;FIND AND NURTURE THEIR GIFTS;

AND HELP THEM TO BECOME THE BEST PEOPLE!

Please contact us at www.meritcenter.org

[email protected]

A SHORT BIBLIOGRAPHY FOR MORE INFORMATION

Failure is Not an Option: Six Principles that Guide Student Achievement in High Performing Schools, Alan Blankstein, 2005

Getting Started: Reculturing Schools to Become Professional Learning Communities, Robert Eaker, Richard DuFour, Rebecca DuFour, 2002

Leading Learning Communies: Standards for What Principals Should Know and Be Able to Do, NAESP, 2002

On Common Ground: The Power of Professional Learning Communities, Richard DuFour, Robert Eaker, Rebecca DuFour (Editors), 2005

Professional Learning Communities At Work: Best Practices for Enhancing Student Achievement, Richard DuFour and Robert Eaker

Whatever It Takes: How Professional Learning Communities Respond When Kids Don’t Learn, Richard DuFour, Rebecca DuFour, Robert Eaker, and Gayle Karhanek, 2004

HELPFUL WEBSITES

www.disciplinehelp.com

www.responsiveclassroom.org

www.teachers.net

www.theteachersguide.com

www.theteacherscorner.com