DR. VAZQUEZ’S EMAIL ABOUT THE NEW EVALUATION SYSTEM IS AT BEST MISLEADING AND AT WORST UNTRUE
Today, CTA learned that the District secretly submitted changes to the evaluation system to the state, which the state approved. At today’s bargaining session, the District shared a one-page document outlining some of the changes that they intend to implement this coming school year. That’s only two weeks away.
Here’s the glaring omission: We’re still in negotiations with the District, and the District proposed to strip the entire evaluation article from our contract. Their proposal would grant them unchecked control over the evaluation system. CTA has not agreed to any changes to current contract language. By implementing a new system in the upcoming school year without our agreement, the District is openly and unequivocally violating our contract.
Not only are evaluations a core working condition, evaluations are tied to our paychecks. Evaluations equal raises and job security. Our current contract defines the “cut scores” for final evaluations, among other rights, which determine whether we receive a final evaluation of Highly Effective, Effective, Developing, or Unsatisfactory. We’re proud that 80-90% of our members receive a rating of Highly Effective.
The District’s proposal would give them the right to unilaterally change the criteria, scales, and cut scores – which could drastically narrow the number of teachers who receive a rating of Highly Effective.
At members’ direction, it is still our goal to reach a fair agreement as soon as possible. Our question is: does the Superintendent share that goal?
From: Supt. Maria Vazquez <no_reply@ocps.net>
Sent: Wednesday, July 17, 2024 3:23:31 PM
Subject: 2024-25 Instructional Evaluation Revisions
Dear OCPS Teachers,
I hope this message finds you well and enjoying your summer. As we continue to strive for excellence in our educational practices, we are pleased to inform you of important updates to our Instructional Evaluation System for the 2024-2025 school year.
In January, we began the process of reviewing our current evaluation system in order to identify areas where changes could be made that would be less burdensome for teachers and still follow state requirements. These revisions are the result of extensive feedback and collaboration from a work group comprised of various stakeholders, including teachers, administrators, and CTA leadership. The district submitted the recommended changes from the evaluation work group to the state earlier this year. I am pleased to announce we have received the state’s approval of the proposed changes.
Why are there revisions to the teacher evaluation system?
The revisions were based on the following:
- Collaboration with the Evaluation Work Group, consisting of teachers, administrators, and CTA members.
- Feedback from the Superintendent’s 2023 Thought Exchange.
- Updated Florida Educator Accomplished Practices.
- Compliance with Section 1012.34, Florida Statutes, and Rule 6A-5.030, Florida Administrative Code.
Highlights of the revisions include:
- Reduced Number of Informal Observations: We have streamlined the evaluation process by reducing the number of evaluative informal observations, allowing for a more focused and efficient assessment.
- Simplified Deliberate Practice Process: The Deliberate Practice process has been simplified to enhance clarity and usability, making it easier for teachers to engage with and benefit from this practice.
- Clarified Streamlined Instructional Framework: We have provided further clarification on the Streamlined Instructional Framework to ensure that all educators have a clear understanding of the expectations and standards.
- No Impact to Academic Freedom: The changes to the evaluation system does not impact the freedom teachers have to implement instruction of the state standards.
These updates are designed to support you and your professional growth, while ensuring the evaluation process is both effective and manageable. We believe these revisions will foster a more supportive and constructive environment for both teachers and students. We are committed to maintaining open communication and providing the necessary support to help you navigate these changes. In the coming days, please be on the lookout for additional details about the 2024-25 evaluation system.
Thank you for your continued dedication and hard work in providing the best education for our students. We look forward to a successful and productive school year.
Sincerely,
Maria F. Vazquez, Superintendent
