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Reform Group Demands That Ineffective Teachers Not Be Returned To Classrooms
‘Reductions In Force’ Should Be Based on Teacher Impact on Learning
Washington, DC – Oct. 16, 2009 – While the District of Columbia City Council and district school leaders tussled over a recent “Reduction In Force” that has resulted in teacher layoffs, a parent and community advocacy group today demanded that both sides commit to making sure that no child be taught by an ineffective teacher, no matter what the budgetary climate looks like.
“Grownups …

By Bill Turque
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, October 1, 2009

D.C. Schools Chancellor Michelle A. Rhee has launched a rigorous evaluation system that will make some District teachers among the first in the nation to have their job security tied to standardized test scores.
The effort to hold teachers accountable for student progress, which began last week, is a cornerstone of Rhee’s agenda and a goal for education reformers nationwide. They contend that the best way to improve schools is to continuously monitor and improve teacher performance. The “value added” — what instructors contribute …