Retaining Effective Teachers Policy
Washington requires that teachers be given written feedback following each observation conducted for the purpose of evaluation. The state does not have policy that connects professional development to teachers' evaluations.
Ensure that professional development is aligned with findings from teachers' evaluations.
Professional development that is not informed by evaluation results may
be of little value to teachers' professional growth and aim of
increasing their effectiveness in the classroom. Washington should ensure
that districts utilize teacher evaluation results in determining
professional development needs and activities.
Washington recognized the factual accuracy of this analysis. The state noted that "there is a strong emphasis on professional growth and accountability in the new teacher system (Teacher/Principal Evaluation Pilot)." Washington added that there is an intent to use the new evaluation system to inform teacher professional development and learning.