Formal Observations:

Formal observations are announced performance evaluations that are guided by the evaluation rubric. Formal observations must last at least 30 minutes, include a preconference (that will be scheduled with 3 student school days’ advance notice to the educator), and be followed by a post-observation conference (that will be scheduled and conducted within 10 student school days following the formal observation), which includes both written and oral feedback. A pre-conference can be held with a group of educators, where appropriate. Educators are required to provide the pre-conference form to the evaluators at least one day before the scheduled pre-observation conference. The educator may request written feedback and rating prior to the post-observation conference to inform the discussion.

Post-Conferences

Post-conferences provide a forum for reflecting on the observation against the Connecticut CCT Domains and for generating action steps that will lead to the educator’s improvement. Following a formal observation, a post conference will be scheduled and conducted within 10 student school days following the formal observation.

A good post-conference: • begins with an opportunity for the educator to share his/her self-assessment of the lesson observed; • cites objective evidence to paint a clear picture for both the educator and the evaluator about the educator’s successes, what improvements will be made, and where future observations may focus; • involves written and oral feedback from the evaluator; and • occurs in a timely fashion.

Classroom observations provide the most evidence for certain domains of the Connecticut CCT, but both pre-and post-observation conferences provide the opportunity for discussion of all domains, including practice outside of classroom instruction (e.g., lesson plans, reflections on teaching).

Feedback

The goal of feedback is to help educators grow as educators and become more effective with each of their students. With this in mind, evaluators should be clear and direct, presenting their comments in a way that is supportive and constructive. Feedback must be provided within 5 student school days of any observation that serves as part of the summative evaluation scoring process (and prior to a post conference) and should include the following as appropriate to the type of observation:

  • specific evidence and ratings, where appropriate, on observed components of the Connecticut CCT;
  • prioritized commendations and recommendations for development actions;
  • next steps and supports the educator can pursue to improve his/her practice;
  • a timeframe for follow up.

Signature Flow

The evaluation process provides an opportunity for evaluators and educators to review professional goals and professional growth in educator practice. In order for the process to occur in a smooth and timely fashion, educator signatures on appropriate forms must be submitted within 10 student school days of its review on any formal, informal or review of practice observation form. Signature only indicates awareness of the contents of the form. It does not signify agreement. If a teacher chooses, he/she may submit a written, electronic response to his/her evaluator, within 10 school days. In the case of error or other needed change, forms can be re-opened at the request of the evaluator for corrections to be made.