Teachers who already worked long hours are working harder and longer hours than ever before during this unprecedented school year—which is why CEA and AFT Connecticut worked successfully with the State Department of Education to provide teachers with flexibility when it comes to teacher evaluation.
The state was not willing to completely waive teacher evaluation requirements this year; however, the flexibilities granted to districts who opt in require no formal observations and lessen paperwork requirements substantially.
“We advocated for these flexibilities to lessen teachers’ anxiety and take something off your plate,” says CEA Teacher Development Specialist Kate Field.
Fewer than thirty districts had chosen the flexible plan as of last week, which Field thinks is likely because some fear an unknown, new plan. She clarifies that, under the flexible plan, teachers who want to can set the same kind of academic goals they would have under their previous plans. The only difference would be fewer observations and less paperwork.
“Urge your district to consider the flexible plan,” Field says. “There are many benefits to the flexible plan in a low-risk environment.”
(Please note: The previous deadline for choosing the flexible plan, which was October 1, has been extended to October 8.)
Find out more:
- CEA Guidance on Educator Evaluation Flexibilities for 2020-21
- Examples of Aligned SEL and Academic Objectives
- Social Emotional Learning Goals
