The evaluation system used at the Robert Treat Academy is heavily based off of the core curriculum standards set by the state of New Jersey in addition to Madeline Hunter's model for decision making during instruction. Teachers at Robert Treat Academy are held to a high standard of being both knowledgable about the subject being taught and also being able to convey that to students in the most effective way. Teachers of Robert Treat Academy are held to ten standards which includes a list of wide ranged skills needed to be an effective teachers.
The Evaluation Process
Every teacher is evaluated formally by the principal of Robert Treat Academy three times a year, although informal observations that are not scheduled occur more often than that. These evaluations have led to having great teachers at Robert Treat Academy along with gaining national attention, such as earning the Blue Ribbon Schools Program Award in 2008. The formal observation first starts with a pre-evaluation conference between the principal and the specified teacher. They discuss the teachers thoughts and concerns about her classroom and steps towards solutions. The second part of the formal observation is when the actual observation takes place. The principal goes into the teacher's classroom for an extended period of time and rates the teacher on the ten standards given. For each standard, the principal chooses whether the teacher's performance is outstanding, satisfactory, or needs improvement. They then move onto the third part of the evaluation which is the post-conferance between the principal and the teacher. During this conference they discuss both the strengths and weaknesses that were seen throughout the observation. The principal will also recommend professional development opportunities that are available to improve upon their weaknesses, which they are expected to attend.
The Development Process
Teachers are expected to attend professional development options presented to them and also create goals for themselves as teachers. They are required to make a Professional Improvement Plan (PIP) in which they outline ways in which they can enhance the techniques that they use within the classroom. Their progress is then submitted as a part of their evaluation. The progress they have made throughout the year, as well as their student's progress, are included to no only see their improvements but to see the effectiveness of participating in certain professional development programs.