What should be the primary focus of school leaders during the evaluation process?

The primary focus of school leaders during the evaluation process should be to provide constructive feedback aimed at improvement. This approach emphasizes fostering professional development and enhancing instructional practices within the school. By prioritizing constructive feedback, school leaders can help educators identify strengths and areas for growth, thus creating a supportive environment that encourages continuous learning and development.

This process not only benefits teachers but also ultimately enhances student learning outcomes. When evaluations are framed positively as opportunities for improvement, they tend to be more effective and welcomed, encouraging a culture of collaboration and accountability.

In contrast, evaluating teachers solely based on test scores does not take into account the multifaceted nature of teaching and learning. Generating public reports for media exposure may distract from the core objective of improving educational practices. Evaluating only the most experienced teachers also overlooks the potential growth and contributions of less experienced staff, which limits the overall professional learning community within a school. Focusing on constructive feedback ensures that all teachers, regardless of experience, are supported in their professional journey.