Everyone at the Table: New Online Resource Helps Involve Teachers in the Evaluation Reform Process

Washington, D.C. – There currently is unprecedented interest in improving teacher evaluation systems, yet in many cases, the role of teachers in shaping the process has been minimal. A new online resource provides school and district leaders with comprehensive materials they can use to encourage teacher involvement in the process.

Everyone at the Table: Engaging Teachers in Evaluation Reform—operated by the American Institutes for Research (AIR) and Public Agenda, with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation—is intended for use by district and school leaders who would like to incorporate the input of teachers in developing new evaluation systems. The resource provides videos, presentation materials, tools, and templates that allow education leaders to:

• Gain insight about teachers’ priorities and concerns when it comes to evaluation.
• Brainstorm innovative ideas for assessing teacher effectiveness.
• Promote structured, constructive dialogue regarding alternative approaches to evaluation. Secure critical buy-in from teachers to ensure a smooth implementation of the reforms.

“Key to the success of any important education reform is strong communication and shared ownership with teachers—the research is clear on that,” said Dr. Ellen Sherratt, who is leading AIR’s work with this project.

For more information on the Everyone at the Table project, contact Ellen Sherratt at esherratt@air.org or visit everyoneatthetable.org.

About AIR
Established in 1946, with headquarters in Washington, D.C., AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization
that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance both domestically and internationally in the areas of health, education, and workforce productivity. For more information, visit www.air.org.

About Public Agenda
Founded in 1975 by social scientist and author Daniel Yankelovich and former U.S. Secretary of State Cyrus Vance, Public Agenda’s mission is to improve public problem solving through nonpartisan research, engagement and communications. For more information, visit PublicAgenda.org.