Everyone at the Table Shares Field-Tested Strategies for Engaging Teachers in Evaluation Reform
Washington, D.C. – A new book by the American Institutes for Research (AIR) and Public Agenda addresses the challenges of teacher evaluation reform by offering school leaders field-tested strategies for collaborating with teachers. Everyone at the Table adds to a body of research suggesting that teacher engagement reduces the likelihood of opposition, gridlock and failure of reforms.
“Too often, teachers are left out when new evaluation systems are designed and implemented,” said Ellen Behrstock-Sherratt, co-author of the book and a senior research and policy analyst on educator quality at AIR. “That’s often why many education reforms sputter or turn into controversy. If districts want effective and sustainable teacher evaluation systems, teachers must be included in policy conversations.”
The book provides research-based methodology, clear strategies and practical materials for engaging teachers in solutions-oriented dialogue about teacher evaluation and teacher effectiveness. Everyone at the Table also features guidance on
- cultivating teacher leadership;
- measuring teacher effectiveness;
- developing strategies for authentic engagement in evaluation reform;
- engaging teachers in other critical education policy solutions; and
- bringing principals, parents, and community members to the table.
A companion web-based resource, with video for teachers and school and district leaders, enhances the collaborative approach outlined in the book—everyoneatthetable.org.
About the Authors
Ellen Behrstock-Sherratt is a senior policy analyst on educator quality at the American Institutes for Research. Allison Rizzolo is the communications director at Public Agenda. Sabrina Laine is vice president of the Education division and leads the educator quality work at the American Institutes for Research. Will Friedman is the president of Public Agenda.
About AIR
Established in 1946, with headquarters in Washington, D.C., the American Institutes for Research (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
Public Agenda is a nonprofit organization that helps diverse leaders and citizens navigate complex, divisive issues. Through nonpartisan research and engagement, it provides people with the insights and support they need to arrive at workable solutions on critical issues, regardless of their differences. Since 1975, Public Agenda has helped foster progress on school reform, teacher effectiveness, achievement gaps, parent and community engagement, and other K-12 education issues.
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