Releasing the teacher data reports is a form of intimidation at its best, and disrespectful treatment of dedicated professionals — many of whom are performing in difficult situations — at its worst.
The reports are full of inconsistent variables that are skewed. Factors such as budget, class size, outside tutoring, parental involvement and support all need to be taken into consideration when assessing teachers.
For example, a math teacher who ALL parents think is phenomenal fell into a low percentile and received a low ranking for the years this information is based on. She came to our school last year, teaches honors math and students flock to her for extra guidance if they are struggling with their course work.
We are already dealing with a school rating system that produces erroneous results. This system too is an unreliable measurement of performance that will demoralize and undermine the morale of those dedicated to shaping the minds and character of our youth.
I fear it will only contribute to increased teaching to the test — limiting teachers to crafting their lessons around rigid rubrics and creating stifling, boring learning environments.
There will be no time to be innovative, energized, or promote individuality. It discourages an atmosphere of creativity that allows teachers to encourage students to express themselves, reason, or debate an issue they are passionate about.
Additionally, colleagues will be dissuaded from collaborating and sharing best educational practices. This can only promote an environment riddled with contempt amongst our teaching professionals, which will not only negatively impact them, but also parents and children.
How can we retain or attract talented, creative individuals if they are subject to such disgrace? In what other forum are people discredited based on an imperfect means of assessment?
Parents want and need transparency and communication, but it’s not provided by politicians obsessed with data who hide behind political smoke-screens. Public humiliation cannot produce positive results.
I want to know what is going on in my child’s classroom and in her school every day, but not at the price of denigrating another human being.
Mrs. Piller is a parent of a seventh-grade student at PS/IS 128 in Middle Village, Queens.