Central Falls Transformation Report - Annenberg Institute for School ...

Regardless of their openness to performance management, most teachers had some complaints
about its implementation. One concern was that evaluations were not adequately
used to improve instruction. These teachers felt there was insufficient follow-through
from the Bench members to help teachers reflect on their pedagogy or to link teachers to
outside resources tailored to their needs. Some new teachers also stated that inconsistencies
between observers led to a sense among teachers that the evaluation process was unfair and
subjective.
FIGURE 21
Examples of CFHS Teacher and Other Staff Perceptions of Performance Management
Theme Respondent Group Exemplar Quotes
Performance Management Activities
Were Beneficial
Performance Management Activities
Were Not Beneficial
Teachers “I believe my experience was extremely beneficial because I was observed by my
director and a second time by my director and teacher leader.”
“Looking at data is extremely beneficial to design future practices.”
“Yes, they have provided teachers with growth opportunities.”
“It’s somewhat beneficial but there are still some teachers who do not fully understand
the evaluation tool. Teachers are very appreciative and respectful to the evaluators and
are willing to build relationships.”
Other Staff “Yes, it provided clear expectations and systemic feedback.”
“Performance management activities have led to increased accountability for all, relative
to student achievement and success.”
“Some teachers have used the information to improve practice.”
Teachers “Performance management is seriously lacking a component that would help a
teacher who is deficient to improve. There has been a lot of emphasis on pointing out
deficiencies but no clearly defined plan or process to promote teacher improvement.”
“For new teachers, it was never explained, and for most teachers that have been here
for years, they never got the proper training except for a book.”
“Performance management is supposed to help students do better. We have been
directed to lower standards to assist students’ grades; therefore, we are supposed to
make them pass rather than try to help the student do better.”
“Too often the PD [professional development] is unorganized and the expectations are
unclear.”
Other Staff “It created a toxic and highly stressful work environment. If evaluations were good,
there was no corrective action plan in place for the teacher to improve…”
NOTE. Other staff may include leadership, guidance, school psychology, social work, the school nurse, and the school librarian.
34 Central Falls High School FIRST YEAR TRANSFORMATION REPORT