A Reader Asks... An Aligned Classroom Observation Tool

A Principal asks the following:

SC,

Here’s my question, “What would a T-TESS walk-thru instrument look like if it was aligned with The Fundamental 5?”

I would rather work smarter than longer!

SC Response

It would look like actually be PowerWalks.  The caveat is that PowerWalks is a formative observation tool... that is based on observable components of best instructional practice.  Used correctly, PowerWalks facilitates teachers getting better at better practice.

T-TESS is a summative evaluation framework... that is aligned to components of best instructional practice. 

Here is the problem (and some uncomfortable truth).  Too many school leaders are looking for a short cut to the formative / summative process.  There isn’t a short cut.  If you are going to embrace instructional leadership, you must create an environment of high volume formative observation and support, with announced summative observation windows.  This provides teachers with the opportunity to get better and the stage to prove it.

Think. Work. Achieve.

Your turn...

• Call Jo at (832) 477-LEAD to order your campus set of “The Fundamental 5: The Formula for Quality Instruction.” Individual copies available on Amazon.com!  http://tinyurl.com/Fundamental5 
• Upcoming Conference Presentations: TASSP Aspiring Principal Workshop (Multiple Presentations), Learning for a Change Spring Summit (Keynote and Multiple Presentations) 
• Now at the Apple App Store: Fun 5 Timer (Fundamental 5 Delivery Tool); PowerWalks CLC (Networked Formative Observation Tool) 
• Follow Sean Cain and LYS on www.Twitter.com/LYSNation  and like Lead Your School on Facebook